The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Ahead Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats 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 Hearts have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
