The Tynecastle side Push Eight Points Ahead Clear at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a foul that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.