The Jambos Extend Eight Points Ahead Clear at Top After Shankland's Penalty Kick Sees Off The Glasgow Giants
We did not witness at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Turning Point in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, once the initial exchanges that was contested closely. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray upending Braga for a penalty that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
The away side responded positively from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for 1-1.
Solid Backline
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted 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. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
- Full report to follow.
