Hearts Move Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
