Hearts Extend 8 Points Clear Ahead at the Summit After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the After the Break
Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before blasting a strike past the static Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a penalty that the captain tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. The defender, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the buzz.
- Complete analysis to follow.
