The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a penalty that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
