The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
