A historic moment didn't occur at their home ground, as it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Hearts have a genuine serious opportunity of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for Hearts over their rivals, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.
A crucial three-minute spell were key, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the rest of the game was for the Tynecastle team. Alexandros Kyziridis netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down the Hearts player for a penalty that Lawrence Shankland converted. Brendan Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.
Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) puts Hearts 2-1 up against the opposition.
Celtic bounced back from an early setback. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to deal with a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, leader McGregor, turning home a Tierney pass for 1-1.
The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Arne Engels shot which touched Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Shin Yamada attempt in stoppage time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the popular anthem at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the noise.
A seasoned gambling analyst with over a decade of experience in sports betting and casino strategy, specializing in data-driven insights.
Donna Vaughn
Donna Vaughn
Donna Vaughn
Donna Vaughn