The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
