The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a foul that the captain converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
