History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine credible shot of breaking Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Try to chase them down.
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before blasting a strike past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray upending Cláudio Braga for a penalty that Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney pull-back for 1-1.
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the noise.
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