The Jambos Extend 8 Points in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
