The Jambos Move Eight Points in Front at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats Celtic
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
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