Hearts Push Eight Points Clear Ahead at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Overcomes The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the After the Break
A brief but pivotal phase were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray upending Braga for a penalty that the captain converted. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, 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, skipper McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the noise.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
