The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
