The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
