Hearts Move 8 Points Ahead at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
