Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period 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 home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending ClƔudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched MagnĆŗsson. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. āWe stand firmā has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
