The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear Clear at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
