The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Clear in Front at the Summit After Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Complete analysis to follow.
