Hearts Push 8 Points Clear Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
