The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.