The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
