The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to remove a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
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