Hearts Extend Eight Points Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Heartsâ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched MagnĂşsson. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. âWe stand firmâ has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis will be available.
