The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Clear Clear at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage 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 static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Complete analysis will be available.
