The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a foul that the captain slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
