Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear in Front at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
