The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Ahead Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
