A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of disrupting Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.
Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender fouling Cláudio Braga for a foul that Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for level terms.
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
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