Hearts Extend Eight Points Clear in Front at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
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