The Jambos Push Eight Points Clear Clear at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
