Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
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