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We did not witness at Tynecastle, since it's far too early for such achievements. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian have a genuine credible shot of disrupting Scottish football's 40-year stranglehold. They now lead by eight points for the team over Celtic, whom they decisively beat. The challenge is now for others.

Turning Point in the After the Break

A brief but pivotal phase proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. What was so notable after they extended their advantage was how comfortable the rest of the game was for the hosts. The Greek winger scored Hearts’ second, cutting in from the left before thumping a right-footed shot past the motionless the Celtic keeper. Delight increased in the stands, the Celtic defender bringing down Braga for a foul that Lawrence Shankland slotted home. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; challenges abound for him.

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

Celtic's Response

Celtic bounced back from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who struggled throughout, conceded an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a ball into the box. The Hoops worked their way into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney pass for 1-1.

Solid Backline

The keeper Schwolow, who had denied from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, parried an Arne Engels shot which touched Tómas Magnússon. Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. The hosts faced little else as the minutes passed. “We remain resolute” has become the Tynecastle verse of choice at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the excitement.

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