The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted 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 Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report coming soon.
