The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
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 credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
