Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a penalty that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
