The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an 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 popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
