The Jambos Push 8 Points in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
