The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
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