Hearts Push Eight Points Clear Clear at the Summit Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a foul that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
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