The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after 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. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
