The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
