Hearts Push Eight Points Ahead at Top After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.
Key Moments in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
Stubborn Defence
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
