The Jambos Push 8 Points Clear Clear at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
