A thrilling Scottish Premiership season ended in pandemonium and disgrace as Celtic defeated Hearts to win the title in the final minutes of the decider as hundreds of fans invaded the pitch.
The Hearts players had to be escorted down the tunnel as thousands of Celtic fans spilled on to the pitch immediately after Callum Osmand made it 3-1 deep into stoppage time of their title decider.
Some confronted the crestfallen Jambos, who were called down the tunnel by club officials concerned for their safety, and the match, which was approaching the end of the indicated eight minutes of added time, did not restart.
With Celtic’s players and supporters still inside the ground waiting to lift the trophy, a 14th in 15 years, the Hearts team bus left Parkhead with players still in their match kits within 20 minutes of the full-time whistle.
They later returned to Tynecastle in tears and a strong club statement followed, confirming that Hearts are in dialogue with Police Scotland and would be investigating “deeply disturbing” reports of “serious physical and verbal abuse” of players and staff.
Follow live reaction of Celtic v Hearts, below
Celtic v Hearts LIVE: Latest updates from Scottish Premiership title decider
- Celtic defeat Hearts in title decider to win Scottish Championship title
- Celtic score twice in final 10 minutes to win 14th title in 15 years
- Hearts left heartbroken after bidding to win first league in 66 years
- Hearts team leave within 10 minutes of full-time after pitch invasion
- Hearts condemn 'shameful' and 'embarrassing' scenes at Celtic in statement
The margin of Maeda’s goal was much clearer. Initially given offside, the forward was onside when he made the burst to the front post to poke in Osmand’s cross.
The smell of sulphur and the sight of green smoke was already in the air as VAR checked, the title hanging in the balance.
But it came crashing down for Hearts, drained players dropping to their knees.
Eight minutes had been added on but Hearts had lost control; it was a forlorn chase.
🍀 Goal STANDS!
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) May 16, 2026
After a VAR check for offside, Celtic take a late lead over Hearts through Daizen Maeda. Now, as it stands, they’ll be champions! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/apMfVwfQjX
O'Neill gambles - and changes the game as Hearts hang on
23:58 , Jamie BraidwoodO’Neill had to go for it. He gambled, changing to 3-5-2, with attacking wing-backs in Daizen Maeda and James Forrest and Kelechi Iheanacho up front with the returning Callum Osmand. It immediately brought a chance but the Welsh substitute could not find Maeda when it was two-on-two. Arne Engels placed a free-kick over, Iheanacho hit the post, Benjamin Nygren saw a shot tipped over by Schwolow, then Osmand headed over from Maeda’s cross.
Hearts, now desperately hanging on, put up the barricades and Celtic prepared to lay siege: the title came down to whether they could survive. Iheanacho had been inches away.
😮 “Unbelievable!”
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) May 16, 2026
Kelechi Iheanacho hits the post! It remains level, meaning as it stands, Hearts are champions 🏆 pic.twitter.com/8t23D7PKnP
Another handball, another Celtic penalty!
22:57 , Jamie BraidwoodThis time, Celtic’s response took six minutes. Inevitably, there would be some controversy: another handball and another penalty just days after the decision at Fir Park that brought Celtic to within one point of Hearts. This time, Celtic had more of a case.
The appeals came instantly when Kyziridis slid in and Kieran Tierney’s cross struck his outstretched arm as he went to ground. “Are you kidding?” McInnes bellowed at the fourth official, but referee Don Robertson pointed to the spot and VAR, this time, did not intervene.
Arne Engels converted, firing under Alexander Schwolow. Celtic Park erupted and the roar continued, blocking out the half-time whistle, signalling the start of a new game.
🍀 Celtic are level through Arne Engels!
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) May 16, 2026
They were awarded a penalty for handball, and the midfielder stepped up and equalised. Watch the incident and goal here ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/z7FETddlqg
Lawrence Shankland heads Hearts ahead, on course for title
21:56 , Jamie BraidwoodHearts attempted an ambitious set-piece routine, with Jordi Altena looking to find Alexandros Kyziridis on the edge of the box. But he miscued the pass and Hearts only just managed to recover to settle for another.
This time, Altena kept it simple and looked for the back post. He found Shankland, the captain heading his 16th of the season.
On the touchline, McInnes raised a clenched fist to those in maroon whose noise could be heard peaking over the bedlam for the first time.
As they were for 12 minutes on Wednesday, and most of this season, Hearts were on course for the title.
🗣️ “That is 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗯𝗶𝗴 𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗽 towards the title!”
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) May 16, 2026
Hearts' Lawrence Shankland opens the scoring against Celtic in this title decider! ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/TcdlLGAcB6
'No place' for the scenes at full-time, says former Celtic striker Chris Sutton
20:57 , Jamie Braidwood“There’s no place for that, you can imagine how the Hearts players felt, such a long season and losing it at the end.
“The Celtic fans that have got involved with the Hearts players are lucky they didn’t get a thump or two.”
‘An embarrassment to Scottish football’: Hearts issue strong statement on ‘shameful’ scenes at Celtic
20:13 , Jamie BraidwoodHearts have said the behaviour of some Celtic fans “embarrassed Scottish football” amid what the club described as “disturbing” reports of “serious physical and verbal abuse towards players and stuff” in the aftermath of Saturday’s Scottish Premiership title decider.
Full story:
‘An embarrassment to Scottish football’: Hearts respond to ‘shameful’ Celtic scenes
Behaviour of some supporters 'unacceptable' - James McFadden
19:54 , Jamie BraidwoodThe behaviour of some Celtic fans towards Hearts players has been described as “unacceptable” by former Scotland striker James McFadden.
“I understand spilling over, onto the pitch, with emotion, you back off, but this is unacceptable to me, going up to players.
“I get emotions running high, players should be safe on the football pitch. You do not want to see that.
“There will always be people who spoil it for everyone. You heard the majority of the fans booing the fans that came onto the pitch. They understand.
“That is unacceptable to me. Players should be safe on a football pitch. They should not be surrounded by stewards.”
NEW: Hearts condemn 'shameful' and 'embarrassing' scenes at Celtic
19:35 , Jamie Braidwood“Heart of Midlothian utterly condemns the shameful scenes at Celtic Park this afternoon which have, once again, embarrassed Scottish football.
“Reports of serious physical and verbal abuse towards our players and staff, both on the pitch and elsewhere, are deeply disturbing. We are investigating this fully and are in dialogue with Police Scotland. We will make no further comment at this time other than to say that it is completely unacceptable that our players and staff were put in that situation.
Given the menacing and threatening atmosphere inside the stadium, our entire staff had no alternative but to leave immediately, without undertaking post-match media duties. To our media partners, we apologise but the safety of our staff was our prime focus during these unacceptable scenes.
“The pitch invasion caused a chaotic end and nobody seemed to know whether or not the match had been brought to a finish.
“Our players were then denied the opportunity to thank our magnificent fans – sensational to a person – for their backing this afternoon and all season long.
“We expect the strongest action possible to be taken by the footballing authorities in the interests of protecting the safety of players and supporters, and the integrity of our game.
“This season has seen Hearts capture the imagination of football fans, not only in Scotland, but the world over. We pay tribute to Derek McInnes, his staff, the first team and the supporters, who have done the club proud this season. None of them deserved the disgraceful scenes that unfolded.”
Club statement: Events at Celtic Park
— Heart of Midlothian FC (@JamTarts) May 16, 2026
🔗 https://t.co/cnToHBofbr pic.twitter.com/85sfxkAN4U
Hearts return back to Tynecastle and receive emotional welcome
18:54 , Jamie BraidwoodHearts were welcomed back home by their supporters, but several players were visibly upset at the events earlier in the day.
Alexandros Kyziridis, Frankie Kent, Stuart Findlay and Jamie McCart all struggled to contain their emotions upon return to Tynecastle Park, with hundreds of fans greeting them.
Derek McInnes was seen consoling his players with fans unveiling banners of gratitude after a historic season for the Jambos, despite finishing as runner-up.
Celtic move above Rangers on 56 titles
18:07 , Jamie BraidwoodHistory for Celtic. After winning 14 of the last 15 titles, they move ahead of rivals Rangers. It’s a 56th for Celtic, leaving Rangers behind on 55.
Hearts players return to Tynecastle
17:54 , Jamie BraidwoodGlum faces on the Hearts players as they return to Tynecastle, where supporters have turned out to congratulate the team on their season. Some of the players were still in their kits after leaving Celtic Park within minutes of the end.
Martin O'Neill: 'Hearts have been brilliant - it's a wake-up call'
17:35 , Jamie Braidwood“Hearts have been brilliant. This year, it's a wake up call, an absolute wake up call to to Celtic and Rangers for a start.
”I think Hearts have been the story of the year as well too, because they've really been brilliant, absolutely brilliant.
”They're six or seven minutes away from winning it, and if they'd won it, they would have deserved it. There's no question about it.”
Reaction from Osmand
17:23 , Mike JonesCeltic’s scorer of the third goal, Callum Osmand, spoke about the moment he found the back of the net.
“It’s one of those moments that … it doesn’t happen, and it’s happened again. I was injured for six months and it was a tough time.
“I felt like I couldn’t give what I wanted to give to the club. But it’s ended like this. Honestly, unbelievable. Every single fan in here, it’s immense. Everything is amazing. I can’t fault a single thing. It’s been a tough season.
“I’m really proud of the boys. I feel like I wasn’t in the team, sort of thing. It was tough. But towards the end, we’re all one and I’m so proud of the boys.”
A word from McGregor
17:03 , Mike JonesCallum McGregor spoke to Sky Sports once again after lifting the trophy.
He said: “At times it looked lost, but in that dressing-room, never ever did they stop believing for one second. You put your heart and soul into this job, and you can’t do it without emotion.
“You can never switch off. In the good moments it’s unbelievable and in the bad moments it’s even worse. When you start to overcome those hurdles, and see the team put one foot in front of the other … credit to the boys, they just never know when they’re beaten.
“Everybody’s had a pop at us, quite rightly at times, but it’s so good to answer that.”
More from O'Neill
16:51 , Mike Jones“The coaching staff, they’ve been magnificent. But you have to have a response to that,” said O’Neill.
“I just think, they see me every day, the players, and they think, he’s a terribly old man, what’s he doing here, among us? But they’ve given me a rejuvenation. Seriously, rejuvenated.
“Back in October I was enjoying retirement. I get a call to come back, and then I get a call again in January. Obviously, I thought the days of me lifting a trophy at Celtic Park were well and truly gone.”
The stadium is rocking
16:37 , Mike JonesMore from Martin O’Neill who said: “What I think is that Celtic today, when there’s unison in this stadium, it’s rocking, it really is. And they never give up. Maybe I did, but they didn’t.
“I’m never sure about momentum. The lads will tell you, that can change in an instant. We were striving hard, and if you’d asked me before we played Rangers that we would take it into the final day, I’d have bitten your arm off.
“They’ve put heart and soul into the games. We make plenty of mistakes, but there’s great courage in the team. Not physical courage, mental courage, which has carried us over the line.”
Martin O'Neill on what happened at full-time
16:20 , Jamie Braidwood“I thought the game wasn't over, so I'm trying to push some of our fans off the pitch again to play whatever's left. Obviously I think at 3-1 with, I think that the fourth official had said to me there was like one minute to go when we scored the goal, so with the best will in the world, they're not going to get two goals in that time.
So I didn't see the incidents. Obviously there's a lot of commotion in the tunnel, so I don't know. If Hearts players have been accosted by some of our fans, that's pretty serious.
I was asking the fourth official or one of the linesmen in the tunnel and he said it's over, but you're right, I didn't know that. Derek came over to me and shook my hand. He said well done.”
Heartbreak for Hearts as Celtic win Scottish Premiership
16:15 , Mike JonesWhat we did is amazing
16:00 , Mike JonesArne Engels gives his reaction to clinching the title on the final day for Celtic.
He said: “I think what we did is amazing. I think we as a team deserve today, and the fans deserve it even more. Now we can finally celebrate together.
“We stay silent and then we just go for it. It shows how good we are and how strong we are. There’s a feeling we really deserve it. We’re really happy. We finally did it.”
More thoughts from Martin O'Neill
15:54 , Mike JonesThe Celtic boss addressed the crowd as well.
He said: “I must admit I never, never in my wildest dreams, thought that I could experience those lads up there [points to the team on the podium].
“The players, the coaching staff, have given me a reason to live. That’s not to say my family haven’t. This is the most special place on earth. When there is absolute unison in this stadium it is a sight to behold.
“Obviously the players have been magnificent, epitomised by the captain, but we couldn’t have won it without you, absolutely not.”
Reaction from Callum McGregor
15:47 , Mike JonesThe Celtic captain told the supporters: “Unbelievable. Such a difficult season. So many downs. But the belief in this group is special, I’ve never seen anything like that before.
“It was never going to be easy today. We thought we’d string it out one last time. This is a special football club, with special supporters.
“You drag us through, time and time again. I hope everyone enjoys it. It’s been such a hard season, so you make sure that you have fun tonight.”
Hearts broken as Celtic snatch late glory in chaotic Premiership finale
15:44 , Jamie Braidwood, at Celtic ParkDerek McInnes said it would be bedlam. Then, when the most thrilling of title races came down to the final seconds, chaos exploded. Unopposed, Callum Osmand ran the length of the pitch and finished into an empty net to seal Celtic’s fifth title in a row, then hundreds of supporters spilled onto the pitch to give chase. What are Hearts if not to be broken. For McInnes and his players, who had led the way since late September, a first title in 66 years slipped away in the final 15 minutes of an enthralling decider. A Celtic title maintains the Old Firm’s dominance to 41 years and counting.
But it was also a disgraceful way for the most compelling of seasons to end.
Hearts broken as Celtic snatch late glory in chaotic Premiership finale
Celtic on top
15:40 , Mike JonesCeltic dominated the game in this title decider.
They had 67% possession compared to Hearts’ 33% and created more chances.
Celtic have 14 shots with five on target compared to 12 from Hearts and two on target.
Hearts players heading back to Edinburgh
15:32 , Mike JonesThe Hearts players were quickly out marshalled out of Celtic Park and back onto th bus back to Edinburgh.
This was a tough beat today and their exceptional season ended without the big success.
It’ll be a tough few days for the players and coaches.
Celtic are the Scottish Premiership champions
15:24 , Mike Jones
Hearts team have left Celtic Park
15:22 , Jamie BraidwoodThe Hearts team have left Celtic Park. They went straight off the pitch and onto the bus following the Celtic pitch invasion. An extraordinary way for the season to end and there is going to be a lot more to come from this disgrace, particularly after what appeared to happen to Lawrence Shankland when the Celtic fans invaded the pitch. The Hearts captain appeared dazed when he was led off by security.
Reaction from Martin O'Neill
15:18 , Mike JonesThe Celtic manager said: "This is the most special place on Earth. I think when there is absolute unison in this stadium, it is a sight to behold.
"The players have been magnificent but we could not have won it without you."
Callum McGregor lifts the trophy
15:12 , Mike JonesCeltic’s captain, Callum McGregor, lifts the Scottish Premiership trophy and lofts it into the air in front of his teammates and 60,000 watching fans.
It’s been an incredible title race and Hearts gave it their all.
But in the end, Celtic have claimed the title.
Hearts were so close
15:07 , Mike JonesFormer Scotland forward, James McFadden, on Sky Sports:
“It will take a lot of time for Hearts to get over this, but when they can they have to take a step back.
“They have pushed Celtic all the way and they were so close. It's a credit to the players and to Derek McInnes.”
Celtic are champions once again
15:00 , Mike Jones
The trophy presentation
14:55 , Mike JonesThe Scottish Premiership trophy is brought out onto the pitch at Celtic Park for the presentation ceremony.
Martin O’Neill has raised a sinking ship from the depths to win it this year.
It’s a remarkable story for him personally.
The greatest league win
14:55 , Mike JonesHere’s a bit of reaction from the players.
Celtic defender Alistair Johnston stopped by Sky Sports and said: "It's the greatest league win - it must be of all time. Never count us out.
“We just felt like we were going to find a way. Unbelievable.
"[Martin O'Neill] is a winner. Build him a statue, it's as simple as that. He just finds a way to win."
Unbelievable run from Celtic
14:50 , Mike JonesCeltic are serial winners and have claimed a 14th top flight title in 15 years.
They earned sevens wins in a row to get to today’s match and still in with a chance before Maeda’s 87th minute goal put them in the driving seat.
Hearts spent 250 days at the top of the table but let is slip in the final minutes of the season.
Heartbreaking.
Martin has found a way
14:46 , Mike JonesFormer Celtic striker, Chris Sutton, gave his reaction to Sky Sports:
“Martin O'Neill has got the old Honda Civic roaring again.
“Hearts have had a magnificent season, but somehow, magic Martin has found a way.”
A shocking end to a great season
14:41 , Jamie Braidwood at Celtic ParkThe scenes at the end, with fans flooding the pitch, were a shocking way for a great season to end.
The Hearts players have been taken off the pitch, presumably for their own safety.
Bedlam and disgrace
14:40 , Jamie Braidwood at Celtic ParkDerek McInnes said it would be bedlam. This is a disgrace. Celtic fans flood the pitch in their hundreds. Many are abusing the Hearts players.
Lawrence Shankland is surrounded by police, I am not sure if there has been an incident involving the Hearts captain.
Celtic win the Scottish Premiership!
14:38 , Mike Jones
Full-time! Celtic 3-1 Hearts
14:34 , Mike JonesAfter that goal, the Celtic fans flood the pitch in scenes of carnage.
The Hearts players are marshalled away from the pitch and the security staff are called on.
The police send the fans back into the stands and amid all the carnage and bedlam the Celtic players begin to celebrate.
The referee blows the whistle and the celebrations can fully begin.
Celtic have won the Scottish Premiership title in 2025/26.
GOAL! Celtic 3-1 Hearts (Callum Osmand, 90+8')
14:32 , Mike JonesThat’s it.
Celtic have beaten Hearts and they’ve won the Scottish title.
Hearts throw everytone forward for a free kick, including the goalkeeper, but Celtic defend the cross and fly forward.
The goal is wide open and it’s an easy score for Callum Osmand.
Bedlam....
Celtic 2-1 Hearts
14:30 , Jamie BraidwoodLawrence Shankland has got to calm down, but you can understand what Hearts' players are going through as the title slips away.
It will be utter devastation unless they can find an equaliser, a disappointment that will be tough to process
Celtic 2-1 Hearts
14:28 , Mike Jones90+6 mins: Celtic have everyone behind the ball and they’ve not giving an inch to Hearts.
There’s still time but it’s quickly evaporating for Hearts to win this title.
Celtic 2-1 Hearts
14:25 , Mike Jones90+3 mins: Celtic Park is bouncing. The fans think this is all over. If Celtic score again it is.
Hearts get possession and send it long but Sinisolo is quick to cover and scoop up the ball.
Celtic 2-1 Hearts
14:24 , Mike Jones90+2 mins: Hearts have to throw everything at the last eight minutes of the season.
Spittal’s throw in leads to a corner for the visitors. Kingsley swings it into the box but Steinwender nods it wide.
One chance gone.
Celtic strike to tilt Scottish title decider away from Hearts in thrilling finale
14:24 , Jamie Braidwood at Celtic ParkUtter chaos, remarks The Independent’s Jamie Braidwood at a crazy Celtic Park.
After Maeda scored, Iheanacho went down to his knees, holding arms to the sky. But it would take another minute for the goal to be awarded, the title in the balance. When referee Robertson pointed to the spot, several Hearts played dropped to their knees instead.
Celtic fans were on the pitch, a topless man grabbing Iheanacho. Shankland screamed at his teammates telling them it's not over yet. Hearts now have eight minutes to find an equaliser.
Celtic 2-1 Hearts
14:23 , Mike Jones90 mins: Eight minutes of stoppage to play. Celtic are eight minutes from the title.
Hearts need to score to win it.
GOAL! Celtic 2-1 Hearts (Daizen Maeda, 87')
14:21 , Mike JonesIt’s a goal!
Celtic Park erupts in cheers and applause. Could that be the decisive moment in the title race?
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
14:20 , Mike Jones87 mins: Disallowed goal!
Daizen Maeda believes he’s won the title for Celtic but the offside flag up.
Osmand is played through the lines and he’s onside. He collects the ball and pulls it into the box to Maeda who turns it home.
VAR is checking this....
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
14:19 , Mike Jones87 mins: Hearts win themselves a corner and take as long as possible to set themselves up for it.
The ball is curled into the box by Spittal but Sinisolo punches it to the edge of the box.
There’s a shot back towards goal but it bobbles wide.
Hearts hanging on as Celtic eye dramatic late winner in title decider
14:18 , Jamie Braidwood at Celtic ParkFor Hearts, their hopes of making history came down to surviving this Celtic seige, notes The Independent’s Jamie Braidwood at a tense Celtic Park.
It will be a heroic effort if they manage it.
Stoppage time to come in six minutes, how much will be added on? The fans can barely watch, nails chipped away in the last hour or so.
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
14:17 , Mike Jones85 mins: Hearts win a free kick inside their own half and it’s a breather from the onslaught of the Hoops.
There’s been nowhere near the kind of control that Derek McInnes would have wanted at half-time but Hearts are hanging in there.
The Celtic fans look nervous.
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
14:15 , Mike Jones82 mins: Celtic are the ones that look the most likely to win this game.
Maeda gets clear on the left and shoots having cut inside. His effort hits substitute Osmand who is in an offside position.
Less than 10 minutes of the 90 to play but there’ll be plenty of stoppage time.
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
14:13 , Mike Jones79 mins: POST!
Iheanacho cuts inside from the right and blazes a shot to the far corner.
He beat Schwolow and rattles the woodwork!
Less than a minute later, Nygren takes a shot and forces the goalkeeper into a fine save to palm the ball over the top!
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
14:12 , Mike Jones78 mins: Missed!
It’s not a terrible effort as Engels gets the ball over the wall but he guides it just wide of the near post!
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
14:10 , Mike Jones77 mins: Oh dear.
Hearts are flapping a bit now. Nygren gets the chance to break free in the box and shoot but he scuffs his effort.
The ball comes out of the box and Cammy Devlin makes a desperate foul to gift Celtic a great opportunity to score.
Engels stands over the ball...
O'Neill goes for it in search of late Celtic winner
14:09 , Jamie Braidwood at Celtic ParkO'Neill has gone for it, notes The Independent’s Jamie Braidwood.
It’s a 3-5-2 for Celtic from here on in, as attacking as he can go with Maeda and Forrest as the wing-backs.
His side have 20 minutes, at least, to find a goal. Hearts just about surviving here.
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
14:09 , Mike Jones76 mins: Celtic win another corner and Engels whips it into the box.
Iheanacho keeps it in play and the ball loops up and is claimed by Schwolow.
O'Neill goes for it in search of late Celtic winner
14:08 , Jamie Braidwood at Celtic ParkO'Neill has gone for it, notes The Independent’s Jamie Braidwood.
It’s a 3-5-2 for Celtic from here on in, as attacking as he can go with Maeda and Forrest as the wing-backs.
His side have 20 minutes, at least, to find a goal. Hearts just about surviving here.
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
14:07 , Mike Jones74 mins: Time is running out for Celtic to win this title. They need to score and now there’s just a touch over 15 minutes left for them to do it.
Hearts are holding on. As things stand the title will be going to them.
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
14:03 , Mike Jones71 mins: Chesnokov has made an impact already with plenty of forward momentum down the right wing for Hearts.
His efforts release a bit of pressure on the visitors.
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
14:01 , Mike Jones68 mins: Derek McInnes rolls the dice and makes a triple change for Hearts.
Pierre Landry Kabore, Alexandros Kyziridis and Harry Milne are all taken off.
In their place come Alan Forrest, brother of Celtic’s James, Islam Chesnokov and Claudio Braga.
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
13:58 , Mike Jones65 mins: Iheanancho wins a free kick as Celtic continue to push forward.
There’s a nervous, hectic energy to the game now.
Johnston comes sweeping down the right side but can’t find a teammate inside the box.
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
13:55 , Mike Jones61 mins: Here comes James Forrest.
Martin O’Neill brings on the big forward to replace Hunjun Yang with Celtic in need of another goal.
Forrest is involved immeditely with a slipped pass into the box for Nygren but he checks his run and the ball bobbles out of play.
Hearts limping towards finish line in gripping Scottish title decider?
13:54 , Jamie Braidwood at Celtic ParkAfter the tension of the first half, the game is opening up now as Celtic go for it, notes The Independent’s Jamie Braidwood at a tense Celtic Park.
Hearts are beginning to look like the walking wounded, too, with Baningime forced off holding his hamstring and now Kyziridis taking a blow. Although it could just be some crafty game management.
There’s also an introduction for James Forrest, who is looking to win his 14th league title of his Celtic career today. Hearts have waited 66 years for one... It’s in the balance with 25 minutes remaining!
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
13:52 , Mike Jones58 mins: Celtic are pressuring Hearts now.
A couple of corners come their way and there are crosses into the area. There’s even a shout for handball but no decision comes their way for that one.
Hearts need a bit of possession, they’ve been penned in a bit byt the hosts.
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
13:48 , Mike Jones55 mins: Kabore buys a free kick after taking the ball off McGregor and feeling contact from Nygren.
He goes down over to the left of the penalty area and is awarded a set piece.
Kyziridis is the man to take the free kick for Hearts and he goes for goal but smokes his effort over the top.
Not the best decision to shoot from there.
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
13:45 , Mike Jones53 mins: Nygren receives the ball and flicks a short pass into the box looking to play in Yang.
The pass is too far away from the winger and Schwolow drops down to smother the ball.
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
13:43 , Mike Jones51 mins: Baningime hobbles off the pitch and looks distraught as he’s guided by the Hearts physios.
Blair Spittal comes on to replace him and it’s been a couple of early changes from the league leaders.
Can they regroup?
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
13:42 , Mike Jones50 mins: Iheanacho carries the ball out to the right wing and he’s tracked by Ben Baningime.
Baningime pulls up before making a tackle and drops to the floor clutching his hamstring and Iheanacho stops his run so his opponent can receive treatment.
This isn’t good for Hearts.
Baningime won’t be able to play on.
Celtic 1-1 Hearts
13:40 , Mike Jones48 mins: Derek McInnes makes an early switch for Hearts and Frankie Kent has come on to replace Jordi Altena.
A savvy move not to make that change at half-time as it takes a minute or so out of the game.
Michael Steinwender isn’t moving freely either. He took a knock in the first half and will be being watched by the Hearts staff for any issues.
Second half! Celtic 1-1 Hearts
13:38 , Mike JonesMartin O’Neill makes a change at the break with Kelechi Iheanacho coming on to replace Sebastian Tounekti in the forward line.
The Hoops get the ball rolling once more a Celtic Park.
Where will the Scottish Premiership title end up after the next 45 minutes?
HT Celtic 1-1 Hearts
13:34 , Mike JonesCeltic dominated the possession in the first half with 65% but it was Hearts who were more aggressive.
They created six shots but only one of them was on target. Thankfully, Lawrence Shankland scored his header.
Celtic only had two chances on target but Engels scored from the penalty spot.
Which way will this title decider twist next?
HT Celtic 1-1 Hearts
13:30 , Mike JonesArne Engels then equalised from the penalty spot for Celtic.
HT Celtic 1-1 Hearts
13:26 , Mike JonesLawrence Shankland gave Hearts the lead through a fine corner and headed effort at the back post...
Half-time! Celtic 1-1 Hearts
13:22 , Mike Jones45+4 mins: The whistle goes to end the first half.
Arne Engels has given some hope to the home fans after Celtic were awarded a penalty for handball.
It felt harsh against Kyziridis but Engels slotted it home beautifully.
All to play for yet.
GOAL! Celtic 1-1 Hearts (Arne Engels, 45+3')
13:19 , Mike JonesArne Engels places the ball on the spot and rolls it underneath the diving Alexander Schwolow.
Celtic are level again in this match!
Penalty to Celtic!
13:19 , Jamie Braidwood at Celtic ParkYou couldn't wrist this script, notes The Independent’s Jamie Braidwood.
McInnes went straight the face of the fourth official and asked him, "Are you kidding me?" Another handball, another Celtic penalty.
Celtic 0-1 Hearts
13:18 , Mike Jones45+1 mins: Penalty to Celtic!
Kieran Tierney gets the ball and flies down the left wing. He hits his cross as Alexandros Kyziridis leaps to make a block.
The ball strikes his hand from a yard or two away as he drops to the floor and the referee points to the spot.
Celtic stunned by Shankland as Hearts dream edges closer
13:17 , Jamie Braidwood at Celtic ParkUnbelievable. McInnes raises his hand and lifts a clenched fist towards the Hearts fans in the corner, notes The Independent’s Jamie Braidwood as a stunned. Celtic Park.
Shankland, the captain, delivers for Hearts in their time of need. What a remarkable twist it is that Hearts clearly planned something from the first corner, only for it to almost go horribly wrong.
They got a second attempt, and it could be the goal that wins them their first title in 66 years. "We shall not be moved" rings out from the away end.
Celtic 0-1 Hearts
13:16 , Mike Jones45 mins: There’ll be three minutes to play before the end of the first half.
Celtic now need to score twice to win the title.
GOAL! Celtic 0-1 Hearts (Lawrence Shankland, 43')
13:15 , Mike JonesWonderful!
Celtic Park has been silenced. Stephen Kingsley whips the second corner in succession over to the far post where his captain, Lawrence Shankland, leaps free and powers a header into the back of the net!
Hearts have taken the lead with a huge goal in this title decider.
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
13:13 , Mike Jones42 mins: Celtic have played like this a few times this season.
They’ve offered hardly anything in this half but usually they follow it up with a blistering onslaught after the break.
The game might be shaping up for something similar.
Hearts, however, are the ones pushing the issue approaching half-time. They win a couple of corners back-to-back....
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
13:11 , Mike Jones40 mins: Celtic’s wide men haven’t been able to get around or past the Hearts fullbacks today.
Milne in particular has been strong against Yang.
Michael Steinwender, meanwhile, has been added to the book for a late lunge on Daizen Maeda which earns him a yellow card too.
McInnes put through the ringer at Celtic Park as Hearts hold firm
13:11 , Jamie Braidwood at Celtic ParkMcInnes had his hand over his head when Engels was running through on goal, The Independent’s Jamie Braidwood observes from his seat at Celtic Park.
He was only to be stopped by a brilliant recovery run from Kyziridis.
This remains incredibly tense, even if Celtic are clearly not the force we maybe talked them up to be giving their recent run.
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
13:08 , Mike Jones37 mins: Oh hello!
Altena does well to get forward on the left wing and shake off a couple of attempted tackles.
He sends the ball inside to Beni Baningime who decides to give it back.
Altena takes a look and tries an optimistic curling shot from range which flies high and wide.
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
13:06 , Mike Jones34 mins: Alistair Johnston is the first player of the match to collect a yellow card.
He’ll need to be a bit more reserved on Celtic’s right side now which could be an issue up against Pierre Landry Kabore.
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
13:04 , Mike Jones31 mins: Close!
Engels takes the ball off Cammy Devlin in the middle of the pitch and kickstarts a mini break for Celtic.
He drives the ball forward and slips it out to the left for Sebastian Tounekti.
Tounekti cuts inside and onto his right foot before driving a low effort at goal and into the arms of Alexander Schwolow.
That’s the first shot on target!
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
12:59 , Mike Jones28 mins: The Celtic supporters began this match is full voice and full of enthusiam and confidence.
That has slowly dwindled as the match has gone on with Hearts growing into the game and looking relatively untroubled.
Kieran Tierney is bullied by Lawrence Shankland but the Hearts captain is a bit too forceful trying to get to the ball and gives up a free kick deep in Celtic’s half.
McInnes masterplan sees Hearts grow in confidence
12:56 , Jamie Braidwood at Celtic ParkHearts are a quarter of the way there, notes The Independent’s Jamie Braidwood at a fiery Celtic Park.
There is a growing sense of frustration among the Celtic fans, who want to see their team move the ball quicker. It’s a testament to how well McInnes has set his team up off the ball, pressing high and cancelling Celtic out in areas, deliberately leaving Auston Trusty in possession but with no one to hit. Celtic have yet to have a shot, let alone a chance.
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
12:56 , Mike Jones25 mins: Celtic fling a long throw into the box and Hearts defend their area.
Jordi Altena takes a hand to the face as Alistair Johnston leaps at him to win the ball.
It’s a heavy collision and the Hearts man comes off worse.
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
12:54 , Mike Jones23 mins: Hearts are playing nicely. It’s tricky for Celtic to play through them and the middle of the pitch has been well controlled from the visitors.
It feels like this will be the nature of the game right up to the point a goal is scored and then everything will change.
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
12:52 , Mike Jones20 mins: Johnston gets into the Hearts box with a superb run down the right wing and collects an aerial pass.
Milne lunges to make an equally impressive tackle and displace the ball.
Johnston goes down but the offside flag goes and spares the referee a decision to make over a possible penalty. It didn’t look like one in any case, Milne timed his challenge brilliantly.
Hearts sweat on fitness of Michael Steinwender
12:49 , Jamie Braidwood at Celtic ParkMichael Steinwender is hobbling on but does not look comfortable, notes The Independent’s Jamie Braidwood at Celtic Park.
Hearts can ill afford another injury after losing Craig Halkett and Marc Leonard.
And the Austrian is limping again after that clearance. The players pushing to their limits at Celtic Park.
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
12:47 , Mike Jones16 mins: Michael Steinwender receives an earful from the Celtic fans after he is clattered and needs some treatment.
The Hearts defender is okay and plays on after a bit of treatment.
No clear chances from either side yet.
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
12:45 , Mike Jones14 mins: So far so good for Hearts. They only need a draw to win the title and Derek McInnes will be pleased with what he has seen.
Hearts haven’t just sat back and let Celtic play. They’ve tried to get forward and create opportunities.
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
12:41 , Mike Jones11 mins: Pushing up the pitch, Milne nicks the ball off Johnston and sends in an early cross.
The pass is poor though and flies wide of everyone to go out for a goal kick.
Hearts are having a bit of joy on their left side. Harry Milne has fired in a series of long throws to test the Celtic defence and he wins a free kick after a tackle from Benjamin Nygren.
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
12:40 , Jamie Braidwood at Celtic ParkIt is deafeningly loud when Hearts are on the ball, writes The Independent Jamie Braidwood from Celtic Park.
But McInnes liked what he saw from his team during their first spell of proper possession, as a big part of their task today is having some control. The start has been predictably frantic but Hearts have got through the first 10-minute marker.
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
12:38 , Mike Jones8 mins: Hyunjun Yang looks to drive at Harry Milne over on Celtic’s right side but he takes a heavy touch allowing the defender to nip across him and rcover the ball.
Celtic win it back quickly and switch the play over to the left. Kieran Tierney swings in a cross which Michael Steinwender turns behind for a corner.
Engels is on set piece duty again and curls the ball into the middle. It’s too high and too hard and sails out of play for a goal kick.
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
12:36 , Mike Jones6 mins: Hearts work the ball wonderfully down the left side to a chorus of boos from the Celtic fans.
Kabore holds up the ball and wins a throw in after getting tackled by Alistair Johnston.
Harry Milne launches the ball into the penalty area and it gets flicked on towards Lawrence Shankland.
There’s a slight tug on his shirt and he falls to ground like he’s taken a haymaker to the face by Anthony Joshua. The Hearts captain appeals for a penalty but the referee isn’t interested.
Celtic 0-0 Hearts
12:33 , Mike Jones3 mins: Celtic push high up the pitch and pile the pressure on Hearts in these early stages.
They win a corner that is taken by Arne Engels.
Engels whips it into the penalty area and fins Auston Trusty but his headed effort flies over the top.
Quick start this from the hosts.
Kick off! Celtic 0-0 Hearts
12:32 , Mike JonesHearts get the ball rolling at Celtic Park and work it over to the right wing.
Pierre Landry Kabore takes an early knock after winning the aerial ball in a challenge with Liam Scales.
He’s on the ground but quickly recovers.
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