The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead at Top After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, 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 Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a 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 stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report to follow.
