The Jambos Push Eight Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell 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 stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
