Hearts Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report will be available.
