Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
