Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
