The Jambos Extend Eight Points in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a foul that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
