The Jambos Extend 8 Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Defeats 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 Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
