The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes 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 the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
