The Jambos Move Eight Points Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants

A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.

Turning Point in the After the Break

A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that the captain converted. Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.

The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.

Celtic's Response

Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.

Solid Backline

The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a 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 the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.

  • Complete analysis to follow.
Austin Monroe
Austin Monroe

A Toronto-based tech journalist and digital strategist with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and startup ecosystems across Canada.