Hearts Move 8 Points Clear at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
