A historic moment didn't occur at Tynecastle Park, as it's far too early for such achievements. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. Try to chase them down.
Decisive Period in the Second Half
A crucial three-minute spell proved decisive, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. Kyziridis scored Hearts’ second, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Murray fouling the Hearts player for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers appeared frustrated; challenges abound for him.
Fans start to rejoice after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against Celtic.
The Visitors' Fightback
Celtic had actually recovered well from an early setback. Dane Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, leader Callum McGregor, scoring a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.
Hearts' Defensive Resilience
The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Arne Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.
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