The Jambos Move Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
