Hearts Push Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
