The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
