The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Clear in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes 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 strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report will be available.
