Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, 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 home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
