Hearts Push 8 Points Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
