The Jambos Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
