The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
