Hearts Push Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
