The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear Clear at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage 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 motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
