The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Full report will be available.
