Hearts Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
