The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, 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 pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
