The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Ahead at the Summit After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Hearts are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
