The Tynecastle side Move Eight Points Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian are at least in with credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that the captain slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up 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 haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
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