Hearts Move Eight Points Clear in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending the Hearts player for a foul that the captain slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
