The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin 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. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.