The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
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