Hearts Push 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
