The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
