Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
