The Jambos Push 8 Points Clear at the Pinnacle Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Glasgow Giants
A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. They now lead by eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
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