The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Heartsâ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off TĂłmas MagnĂșsson. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. âWe stand firmâ has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report coming soon.
