The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report will be available.
