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History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being 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 long-standing stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.

Decisive Period in the Latter Period

A brief but pivotal phase were key, once the initial exchanges that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the goalkeeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that the captain tucked away. The Celtic manager looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.

The Visitors' Fightback

Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Dane Murray, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to panic when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for the equaliser.

Hearts' Defensive Resilience

The Hearts goalkeeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.

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