Hearts Move 8 Points Ahead at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
