The Jambos Extend Eight Points in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
