Half-Time: Celtic 0-0 Hearts – Promising Signs for Hoops as They Remain Level

Celtic are level against Hearts at half-time, with the Hoops failing to score after a respectable first half.

The Game began with Arne Engels’ effort from an Alistair Johnston cross in the 4th minute, which the Belgian blasted wide.

Just three minutes later, Daizen Maeda had an attempt cleared off the line by Hearts defender Gerald Taylor, although it was later flagged for offside.

Celtic continued their positive start in the 10th minute, with Kyogo Furuhashi hitting just wide after a link-up with Nicolas Kuhn.

Reo Hatate added to the chances with a long-range effort that forced Craig Gordon into a save.

Arne Engels came very close in the 23rd minute with a wonderful effort that struck the right post, with the pass once again coming from Nicolas Kuhn.

Hearts were awarded a penalty around the 30th minute mark after an alleged handball, but the decision was later overturned by VAR.

After official Colin Steven reviewed the footage, he judged that Liam Scales’ handball from a Lawrence Shankland header did not warrant a penalty after the ball struck high on the Irishman’s arm, highlighting the new, more lenient rules in Scottish Football that are fairer to defenders from close range incidents.

Craig Gordon was tested again when Nicolas Kuhn shot from the rebound in the 45th minute after a Kyogo Furuhashi effort.

However, the former Celtic goalkeeper came out on top once more.

Celtic have shown promising signs throughout the first 45 minutes and will look to step up their Game in the second half.