Hearts Extend Eight Points in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. The Celtic manager 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 the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
