🔗 Share this article

History wasn't made at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such milestones. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.

Key Moments in the Latter Period

A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was fiercely fought. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland converted. Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.

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

The Visitors' Fightback

Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.

Stubborn Defence

The keeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.

• Detailed coverage coming soon.