Hearts Push 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report to follow.
