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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
Sport
Alan Galindo

Hearts 2 Aberdeen 1 as battle for third on, Josh Ginnelly a must keep - 3 things we learned

Hearts came from a goal down to secure a HUGE three points in the race for third spot.

Steven Naismith's men came into the clash trailing Aberdeen by five points and suffered a major setback when Zander Clark came out to punch at a corner and completely missed the ball, allowing Mattie Pollock to head into an empty net.

However, Josh Ginnelly gave the players and supporters something to cheer with a special effort just before half-time as he fired his long-range curler into the top corner of the net. It was the lift everyone around Tynecastle needed moments before the break and skipper Lawrence Shankland then turned the game on its head after rounding off an excellent team move with a finish to match. It was a 27th goal of the season and it could prove to be his most important. Here's three things we learned from Gorgie.

READ MORE: Josh Ginnelly on Hearts future as he provides detailed insight into factors he must consider

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Battle for third

Hearts are right in the mix for the battle to finish third in the Scottish Premiership.

Steven Naismith's men reduced the gap between themselves and Aberdeen to just two points after a comeback win in Gorgie.

Mattie Pollock had headed the Dons ahead but goals from Josh Ginnelly and Lawrence Shankland secured a vital win.

It means the chance at guaranteed European group stage football and the millions in prize money is still in reach - assuming that Celtic lift the Scottish Cup.

What an end to the campaign this is becoming.

Keep at all costs

Josh Ginnelly has openly discussed his future at Hearts with his deal ticking down.

But from a Jambos point of view - they must do all they can to keep him.

13 may be unlucky for some but not the Tynecastle attacker who levelled with an incredible goal to notch goal 13 of the season.

A massive player in the capital this season and the fans will be praying for many more years to come.

What's next?

Hearts now have two games of the season left in what will be a huge final week.

First up is a midweek clash under the lights at Ibrox against Rangers.

Michael Beale's men are playing out the season and it could offer hope to Steven Naismith's side as the Ibrox boss explores who he wants to retain for his summer overhaul.

A final day of the season derby with Hibs at Tynecastle ends the season.

It could arguably be the biggest showdown between the duo in years. Especially with European places at stake.

READ NEXT:

- Lawrence Shankland in 'miles away' St Mirren verdict but stresses point could prove key in Euro hunt

- Stephen Humphrys in early Hearts exit as Steven Naismith details reasons after chat with Wigan man

- Steven Naismith in 'tale of two halves' Hearts assessment after St Mirren rescue mission

- St Mirren 2 Hearts 2 as Jambos claw back point from late penalty - 3 things we learned

- Hearts vs Aberdeen handed PPV boost with game heading towards 'complete sell out'

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