The Jambos Push Eight Points Ahead at Top Following Lawrence Shankland's Spot-Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. 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 Heartsâ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched MagnĂşsson. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. âWe shall not be movedâ has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the noise.
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