The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a foul that the captain converted. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
