Hearts Move Eight Points Ahead at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.