The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
