The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. Rodgers 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.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
