History wasn't made at their home ground, as it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. They now lead by eight points for the maroon side over their rivals, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, following a tight first half that was evenly matched. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Dane Murray fouling Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; challenges abound for him.
The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for level terms.
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It's hard to ignore the excitement.
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Roberto Wood
Roberto Wood