The Jambos Push 8 Points Ahead at the Summit After Shankland's Penalty Overcomes The Hoops
A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a foul that the captain tucked away. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had denied from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. One cannot overlook the excitement.
- Full report coming soon.
