The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Summit Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
