The Jambos Move 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's long-standing stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that the captain slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
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