The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down the Hearts player for a spot-kick that the captain converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
