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History wasn't made at Tynecastle Park, since it's far too early for such milestones. This game highlighted is that Heart of Midlothian possess a real credible shot of ending Scottish football's 40-year 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 After the Break

Three second-half minutes proved decisive, 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 home side. Kyziridis netted the second goal, moving infield before thumping a right-footed shot past the static the goalkeeper. More joy followed in the stands, Dane Murray bringing down Cláudio Braga for a spot-kick that Shankland converted. Rodgers cut such a disconsolate figure; his problems are mounting.

Supporters began celebrating after Alexandros Kyziridis (second right) scores to make it 2-1 against the opposition.

Hoops' Reaction

The away side responded positively from an early setback. The defender, who struggled throughout, scored an own goal due to confusion when trying to remove a Shankland cross. The Hoops worked their way into the game, the captain McGregor, scoring a Tierney pass for level terms.

Stubborn Defence

The keeper Alexander Schwolow, who had saved superbly from Benjamin Nygren in the first half, kept out an Engels shot which flicked off Tómas Magnússon. Halkett thwarted a Yamada attempt in the dying moments. They comfortably saw out the game as the clock ticked down. “We stand firm” has become the popular anthem at the ground. It is becoming increasingly difficult the noise.

• Full report coming soon.