Hearts Move 8 Points Clear at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
