The Jambos Push 8 Points in Front at Top After Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis coming soon.