The Jambos Move 8 Points Ahead in Front at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
