Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Full report coming soon.
