The Jambos Extend 8 Points in Front at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report will be available.
