The Jambos Move Eight Points in Front at the Pinnacle Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
- Full report to follow.
