The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
