The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Hoops
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
