Hearts Move Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
