The Jambos Push 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle, 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 title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Full report will be available.
