Hearts Push 8 Points Ahead Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan 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
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
