Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
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