The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a penalty that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
