Hearts player ratings v Hibs after frustrating derby afternoon for Shankland

The Jambos winger bagged a stunning opening goal for the hosts before they let a second half two goal lead slip in a 2-2 draw against rivals Hibs at Tynecastle in the first derby of the season.

Hearts blew a two-goal lead as they came unstuck in what will be a disappointing derby draw at home to Hibs.

Steven Naismith’s side were looking to add another impressive win onto their tally this season after an early season home slump. Their last Tynecastle outing saw them run out 2-0 winners in an big victory over Aberdeen. Today, though they welcomed city rivals Hibs who themselves were beginning to hit a bit of form after going unbeaten under new manager Nick Montgomery.

It was a frantic start to the derby as the rain battered down in the capital. Two Hearts bookings in the opening seven minutes would have had Naismith in a panic as his side were forced to defend a number of Martin Boyle’s mazy runs. Things soon swung in favour of the home side as Alex Lowry struck the post before Tony Sibbick’s effort caused problems and Lawrence Shankland also had his shot stopped by David Marshall as Hearts took the upper hand.

Alan Forrest then stepped up and hit a worldie. The former Livingston man drifted inside and struck a stunning effort from more than 20 yards out which zipped past Marshall. Hearts were then forced to defend but took a well deserved lead in at the break.

Hearts surrendered a two goal cushion in the second half as they allowed their rivals back into the game. Lowry saw his pass into the box deflected into the net off the boot of Christian Doidge putting the Gorgie men on easy street. But Montgomery’s side launched a stunning comeback with Elie Youan striking inside the box, before bursting through for a deadly double two minutes later, which silenced Tynecastle. Naismith looked to his bench as Hearts pushed for the winner but they were unable to find another goal as they had to settle for a draw. Here is how we rated Naismith’s side as the spoils are shared in Edinburgh.

Frankie Kent – 6

Had an unlikely assist after his ball straight through to Forrest before his team mates wonder strike. Good distribution overall and solid from the summer signing.

Kye Rowles – 7

Made some important last-ditch blocks as Hibs threatened around the box. Shifted to right back after Kingsley’s injury. Was done for pace as Youan ghosted past for his second as he side let a major lead slip.

Stephen Kingsley – 6

Derby veteran added plenty of experience to the rear-guard and bombed forward. Unlucky to go down injured after a heroic block in the box just before half time spelling the end of his game. Subbed.

Toby Sibbick – 7

Full of energy to get forward and provide a threat. Defended well when called upon. Strong display.

Calem Nieuwenhof – 7

Starred alongside partner in crime Devlin as the two Aussie men took control of the midfield battle. Showed some neat touches and helped keep the high tempo going.

Cammy Devlin – 7

Took one for the team with an early booking after bringing down Boyle as he darted through on goal. Battled in the heart of the engine room along with Nieuwenhof, doing the hard work for Hearts more attacking threats. Another solid display.

Alan Forrest – 8

Stole the show in the first half with an unbelievable strike which came out of nowhere. Possible goal of the season contender. Creative qualities shown throughout. A top display.

Alex Lowry – 8

Unlucky to be subbed after a hugely influential display. Pass into the box created the chaos to double Hearts lead, created plenty of chances in the first half, came close after early strike rattled the post. Another big step forward for the on-loan Rangers man.

Kenneth Vargas – 6

Made positive runs forward but lacked a clinical edge. Struggled after crunching challenge from Fish in first half. Subbed.

Lawrence Shankland – 6

A frustrating week for Shankland ended with a frustrating afternoon. No Scotland call up this time round for a guy who desperately needs a goal. Not for the lack of trying, but a difficult spell for last season’s star man.

Subs

Beni Bannigime 4 – On for the influential Lowry. Took time to settle but the powerful midfielder took control as Hearts searched for the winner.

Jorge Grant 3 – Off the bench to replace Vargas as Naismith switched up the attack.

Liam Boyce 3 – Came on to help his side find the crucial winner in a tense ending to the game.

Odeluga Offiah 3 – On to replace the injured Kingsley. On-loan Brighton man starred in a second half showing, but was put under pressure as his side let that two goal lead slip.