The Jambos Move 8 Points Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
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