Celtic’s title decider against Hearts was brought to an early end before being interrupted due to a mass pitch invasion in the closing stages. It all continued until the final day, when Hearts were in the lead by one point, but needed to avoid defeat to win the league. Lawrence Shankland took the lead just before half-time with a shot at the back post, much to the delight of the visitors.
After a clear handball inside the area, it didn’t take long for Celtic to score an equalizing goal from the penalty spot courtesy of Arne Engels. They increased the pressure in the closing stages in search of a decisive winner, and Daenen Maeda found the back of the net with just three minutes remaining, ultimately clinching the win.
Hearts threw Celtic the kitchen sink in the eighth minute of second-half stoppage time, lifting goalkeeper Alexander Schworrow to take a free-kick in the dying seconds.
However, the ball was cleared and Callum Osmund slipped the ball past and into the empty net, giving Celtic a 3-1 victory and clinching the Scottish Premiership title.
The final goal caused chaos at Parkhead, with the home supporters rushing onto the pitch and scenes of wild celebrations.
However, the final whistle was not blown and referee Don Robertson was forced to stop the match as it was deemed impossible to continue. In the end, the match ended early even though there was still time left in the match.
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton told Sky Sports: “This is a big mess. I don’t know if the final whistle has blown or not. I understand the excitement but this is ridiculous. Celtic fans need to get off the pitch.”
It was a devastating end to the season for Hearts, who had led the league for most of the season and were just minutes away from winning their first title since 1960.
Meanwhile, Celtic won on a very dramatic final day at the expense of their Edinburgh rivals and have now won five in a row.
Hoops captain Callum McGregor fought back tears after the final whistle and said:
“Everyone ignored us. We knew we had a chance. We keep moving forward. What a special group of people. It’s magical.”
Celtic defender Alistair Johnston added: “This is the best win in the league. This has got to be the best win of all time. Don’t count us out in any way. I just felt we were trying to find a way. It’s unbelievable.”
