The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
