The Jambos Extend Eight Points in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point 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 took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked 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 Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Full report coming soon.
