Heartless Hoops​

Full in the knowledge that arch-rivals Rangers had dropped a crucial two further points in Saturday’s early SPL kick off, Scottish Champions Celtic had the opportunity to increase their lead at the top of the table to six points.​

Playing at home, they faced a Heart of Midlothian outfit that has thrived under the tutelage of new gaffer, Csaba Laszlo. It was Hearts who started proceedings far more brightly than their counterparts, who once again seemed to be struggling from the now customary post-European hangover. Having performed so admirably against Villarreal midweek, Celtic produced one of the most lacklustre first half performances witnessed in recent times.​

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Laszlo – Inspired start to his Hearts Reign​

The deadlock was broken in the 23rd minute – young Andrew Driver, who has excelled of late, capitalising on a low drive from the tireless Laryea Kingston as he stroked home past Artur Boruc. After some unfortunate errors of late, Boruc could not be faulted for the goal, and instead denied Christian Nade soon after. At this stage, the visitors were in the ascendancy, the Bhoys looking bereft of ideas.​

A further blow for Celtic came with the substitution of Shaun Maloney in the 30th minute. Initial worst fears are yet to be confirmed, but it appears likely he could be out of action for some time. His hamstring injury will ensure he misses the rest of the fixtures this calendar year, including the next Old Firm encounter on December 27th.​

As half time approached, Driver again threatened Boruc’s goal – once again, the Pole was up to the challenge with a wonderful save at a crucial time. At 2-0, the game was more than likely up for Gordon Strachan’s men; Boruc’s save vital.
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Boruc – responding well to some below-par performances​

The second half, in all honesty, provided little more in terms of entertainment. Celtic at least looked slightly more re-assured in possession, Scott Brown and Paul Hartley imposing themselves on proceedings more as the Champions strived for an equaliser. Nevertheless, this was not the form that has seen them rack up 3 consecutive SPL titles.​

In the 79th minute, however, it was 1-1. A decent ball played in by the otherwise innocuous Shunsuke Nakamura was met by the head of Georgios Samaras – his flick down was met by skipper Stephen McManus who made no mistake from close range. In the aftermath, Scott McDonald had a chance to make it two, but that would have been harsh on Hearts who deserved at least a point from proceedings.​

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McManus – crucial equaliser from the Captain.​

An opportunity wasted, and a mere one point from their last six. Although the lead at the top remains a healthy four points, it has been a disappointing fortnight from a domestic stance, and Strachan’s men will be keen to get their title challenge back on track when away to Falkirk this Sunday.​