The Jambos Move Eight Points Clear at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes Celtic
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
