Hearts Push Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
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