Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report will be available.
