The Tynecastle side Push 8 Points Clear at the Pinnacle After Lawrence Shankland's Penalty Defeats The Hoops
History wasn't made at their home ground, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they comfortably swatted aside. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The Visitors' Fightback
The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pass for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the buzz.
- Full report will be available.
