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We did not witness at their home ground, since it's far too early for such landmarks. What this match did emphasise is that the Edinburgh club have a genuine strong chance of ending Scottish football's four decade-long stranglehold. Make that an eight-point lead for the maroon side over Celtic, whom they comfortably swatted aside. Catch them if you can.

Decisive Period in the Latter Period

Three second-half minutes proved decisive, after an opening period that was contested closely. It was remarkable after they took a 3-1 lead was how stress-free the remainder of the game was for the Tynecastle team. The Greek winger netted the second goal, drifting inside before firing a powerful effort past the motionless Kasper Schmeichel. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland tucked away. Rodgers looked dejected; his problems are mounting.

Fans start to rejoice after Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.

Celtic's Response

The away side responded positively from the hosts' quick opening. The defender, who endured a torrid afternoon, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, turning home a Kieran Tierney cutback for the equaliser.

Hearts' Defensive Resilience

The shot-stopper Schwolow, who had made a brilliant stop from Nygren in the first half, parried an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Craig Halkett blocked a Yamada attempt in added time. They comfortably saw out the game as the game concluded. “We remain resolute” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It's hard to ignore the excitement.

• Complete analysis coming soon.