The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear in Front at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
