Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
