The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Ahead Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
