The Jambos Push Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Hoops
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
