The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
