Hearts Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
