The Jambos Extend Eight Points Clear at the Summit Following Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
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