The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Ahead in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
