The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
