Hearts Push 8 Points in Front at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's long-standing dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
