Hearts Move 8 Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
