Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top After Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a foul that the captain converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
