The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest 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 static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
