The Jambos Move 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
