Hearts Move 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report to follow.
