Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report to follow.
