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We did not witness at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such landmarks. The encounter underlined is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real strong chance of breaking Scottish football's four decade-long dominance by two. Make that an eight-point lead for Hearts over Celtic, whom they easily dispatched. Catch them if you can.

Turning Point in the Latter Period

Three second-half minutes made the difference, after an opening period that was evenly matched. It was remarkable after Hearts surged 3-1 in front was how stress-free the rest of the game was for the home side. Alexandros Kyziridis doubled the lead, cutting in from the left before firing a powerful effort past the stationary the goalkeeper. Soon there was further euphoria in the stands, the Celtic defender upending the Hearts player for a penalty that Shankland slotted home. Brendan Rodgers looked dejected; he hardly has his troubles to seek.

Supporters began celebrating after Kyziridis (second right) gives Hearts the lead against the opposition.

Celtic's Response

Celtic had actually recovered well from Hearts’ rapid start. Murray, who endured a torrid afternoon, turned the ball into his own net due to confusion when trying to clear a delivery from Shankland. Celtic edged their way back into the game, skipper Callum McGregor, finishing a Kieran Tierney cutback for 1-1.

Solid Backline

The shot-stopper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which deflected off Magnússon. Halkett stopped a Yamada attempt in added time. Hearts were otherwise untroubled as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the favoured chant at Tynecastle. It is becoming increasingly difficult the buzz.

• Full report to follow.