The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
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