Hearts Move Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts are at least in with serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a foul that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
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