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We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's 40-year title duopoly. That advantage stands at eight points for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.

Turning Point in the Latter Period

Three second-half minutes were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the home side. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. More joy followed in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a foul that the captain converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.

Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.

Celtic's Response

The away side responded positively from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who had a difficult day, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to remove a ball into the box. They gradually fought back into the game, the captain Callum McGregor, finishing a Tierney pull-back for level terms.

Solid Backline

The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the minutes passed. “We stand firm” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at the stadium. One cannot overlook the excitement.

• Full report will be available.