History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such landmarks. This game highlighted is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine serious opportunity of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Key Moments in the Latter Period
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before blasting a strike past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a foul that the captain tucked away. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against Celtic.
Hoops' Reaction
Celtic bounced back from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who struggled throughout, conceded 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, scoring a Tierney pull-back for level terms.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.
- Detailed coverage coming soon.
