The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
