The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Ahead at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
