Hearts Move Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
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