Hearts Move Eight Points Clear at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report will be available.
