History wasn't made at their home ground, with it being far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that Hearts have a genuine strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. That advantage stands at eight points for the team over the visitors, whom they easily dispatched. The challenge is now for others.
Three second-half minutes made the difference, following a tight first half that was fiercely fought. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how untroubled the closing stages of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger doubled the lead, drifting inside before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, Murray fouling Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.
Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.
The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who had a difficult day, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for the equaliser.
The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, blocked an Engels shot which deflected off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett stopped a Shin Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the game concluded. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the stadium. One cannot overlook the buzz.
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