The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager 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 the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
