The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top After Shankland's Penalty Defeats Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
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 they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
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 Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
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