The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
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