The Jambos Move 8 Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes 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 Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger doubled the lead, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain converted. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper 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 thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
