The Jambos Push Eight Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
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