Hearts Edge Past Hibernian in Dramatic Derby to Move Three Points Clear at Summit

Hearts Edge Past Hibernian in Dramatic Derby to Move Three Points Clear at Summit

Hearts secured a hard-fought victory over Hibernian at Easter Road in a chaotic Edinburgh derby, with substitute Blair Spittal scoring a late winner to move the visitors three points clear at the top of the Scottish Premiership with four games remaining.

The contest proved to be an intense battle of attrition, with Hibernian's discipline ultimately undoing their defensive resilience. Manager David Gray's side fought with commendable resolve despite being reduced to nine men following red cards for goalkeeper Raphael Sallinger in the 11th minute and defender Felix Passlack after the interval.

Boyle Gives Hibs Early Advantage

Hibernian seized the initiative early when Martin Boyle opened the scoring in the seventh minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to finish coolly past Hearts goalkeeper Craig Gordon after Jamie McGrath's dangerous free-kick delivery.

However, Sallinger's dismissal for handball outside his penalty area just four minutes later shifted the momentum decisively. Hearts, galvanized by the numerical advantage and news that Rangers had suffered a home defeat to Motherwell, began to apply relentless pressure on the depleted hosts.

Late Drama Decides the Contest

Despite Hearts' dominance—they recorded 74 per cent possession and 13 shots in the opening half alone—Hibernian's stubborn defending kept them at bay until manager Derek McInnes introduced substitute Sabah Kerjota from the bench. Kerjota's impact proved decisive, with his direct running and crossing proving instrumental in both the leveller and the winner.

Warren O'Hora turned the ball into his own net under pressure from Lawrence Shankland to level the score, before Kerjota's cross five minutes from time found Spittal, who driven a powerful finish past Smith to secure the three points.

The victory extends Hearts' remarkable record of accumulating 20 league points from the 83rd minute onwards this season—a statistic that underscores their resilience and mental fortitude. With Rangers now wounded and Celtic their only remaining serious challenger, Hearts have moved firmly into the ascendancy in the title race.

McInnes faces Rangers at Tynecastle next, with the prospect of effectively ending their opponents' title challenge in the process.