Hearts Push 8 Points Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.