Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead Ahead at the Summit Following Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Kick Defeats The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Solid Backline
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Complete analysis coming soon.
