The Jambos Push 8 Points Clear in Front at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a penalty that the captain converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
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