Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a spot-kick that the captain converted. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
