The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
