The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead at the Summit Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
