The Jambos Push 8 Points Clear at Top After Lawrence 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 possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
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