Hearts Move 8 Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
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