Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report to follow.