The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
