The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
