Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
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