The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
