The Jambos Extend 8 Points Clear at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
