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We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such achievements. What this match did emphasise is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's long-standing title duopoly. Make that an eight-point lead for the team over the visitors, whom they decisively beat. Catch them if you can.

Turning Point in the After the Break

Three second-half minutes made the difference, once the initial exchanges that was fiercely fought. The striking aspect after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the hosts. Kyziridis doubled the lead, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers appeared frustrated; his problems are mounting.

The crowd erupted after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.

Hoops' Reaction

Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a delivery from Shankland. They gradually fought back into the game, skipper McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney pull-back for level terms.

Solid Backline

The Hearts goalkeeper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. They comfortably saw out the game as the minutes passed. “We shall not be moved” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.

• Detailed coverage to follow.