The Jambos Push Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
