The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers 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.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
