Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
