The Tynecastle side Extend 8 Points Clear at the Summit Following Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes were key, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the static Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
- Full report coming soon.
