The Jambos Extend 8 Points Ahead Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
Celtic's Response
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to clear a ball into the box. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
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