The Jambos Move Eight Points Ahead in Front at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report to follow.
