The Tynecastle side Move 8 Points Ahead Ahead at Top After 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 achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report will be available.
