The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
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