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We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.

Turning Point in the Latter Period

Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the closing stages of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, moving infield before blasting a strike past the motionless the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray fouling the Hearts player for a foul that the captain slotted home. The Celtic manager appeared frustrated; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

The crowd erupted after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.

Celtic's Response

Celtic had actually recovered well from the hosts' quick opening. Murray, who struggled throughout, turned the ball into his own net due to panic when trying to deal with a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for 1-1.

Hearts' Defensive Resilience

The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at the ground. One cannot overlook the noise.

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