The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point 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 they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
