The Jambos Extend 8 Points in Front at the Pinnacle Following 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 landmarks. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling the Hearts player for a foul that the captain converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis to follow.
