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A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. Try to chase them down.

Turning Point in the Second Half

A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. The Celtic manager looked dejected; challenges abound for him.

Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.

Celtic's Response

Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. Dane Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to haste when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, turning home a Tierney cutback for 1-1.

Stubborn Defence

The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. One cannot overlook the excitement.

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