The Jambos Move 8 Points Ahead Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
