A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, with it being far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club are at least in with credible shot of breaking Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
A crucial three-minute spell were key, following a tight first half that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the stationary the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray bringing down Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Murray, who had a difficult day, conceded an own goal due to panic when trying to remove a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.
The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Shin Yamada attempt in the dying moments. The hosts faced little else as the game concluded. “We shall not be moved” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.
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