The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
