Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
