Hearts Push Eight Points Clear in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
