Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
