The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
