The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly 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 clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
