Hearts Move 8 Points Clear in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot 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. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
