The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report coming soon.
