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A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with strong chance of ending Scottish football's 40-year dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.

Decisive Period in the After the Break

A brief but pivotal phase made the difference, following a tight first half that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.

Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.

Celtic's Response

Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to haste when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for level terms.

Hearts' Defensive Resilience

The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.

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