Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
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 Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
