The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear in Front at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
