Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that the captain converted. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report will be available.
