Hearts Extend 8 Points Ahead at Top Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
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