The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
