The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Ahead at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray fouling the Hearts player 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) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Full report to follow.
