Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report will be available.