The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes 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 Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
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 stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin 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. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
