The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
