Hearts Move Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a foul that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
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