The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
