Hearts Push Eight Points Clear Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
