The Tynecastle side Extend Eight Points Ahead in Front at the Pinnacle After Shankland's Spot-Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
History wasn't made at Tynecastle, with it being far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
Three second-half minutes were key, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, moving infield before firing a powerful effort past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul 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.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
Stubborn Defence
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Detailed coverage to follow.
