Hearts Move Eight Points Clear Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Heartsâ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off MagnĂșsson. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. âWe shall not be movedâ has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis will be available.
