Hearts Move Eight Points Clear in Front at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
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