The Jambos Extend 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
