Little over a month ago, observers outside of Scottish football were looking in at a potential storybook season unfolding at Tynecastle.
A statement 3-1 win for leaders Hearts over reigning champions Celtic had opened up an eight-point gap at the Scottish Premiership summit. A title challenge was on.
Six games later, the Edinburgh side’s advantage has vanished, with a trip to Parkhead looming on Sunday and Celtic having played a game fewer.