The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
