Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
