The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Complete analysis coming soon.