The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Clear at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
