The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Full report will be available.
