🔗 Share this article

We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Hearts possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.

Decisive Period in the Latter Period

A crucial three-minute spell made the difference, after an opening period that was contested closely. The striking aspect after they took a 3-1 lead was how comfortable the remainder of the game was for the hosts. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that the captain converted. The Celtic manager looked dejected; his problems are mounting.

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

The Visitors' Fightback

The away side responded positively from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a Shankland cross. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for the equaliser.

Solid Backline

The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. It's hard to ignore the buzz.

• Complete analysis will be available.