The Jambos Push 8 Points Clear Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
