The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.