Hearts Move 8 Points Ahead in Front at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.