The Jambos Move Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
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