Hearts Move Eight Points Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report will be available.
