Heart of Midlothian are on the verge of a historic Scottish Premiership title, needing only a draw against Celtic at Celtic Park on Saturday to end a 64-year drought. The Edinburgh club last won the top-flight title in 1960, and victory would break the dominance of Celtic and Rangers, who have won 110 of the 122 titles since the league's formation.
The match has captured the imagination of neutrals across Scotland and beyond, with many backing Hearts to upset the established order. Even fans of local rivals Hibernian, including tennis star Andy Murray and author Irvine Welsh, have expressed reluctant support. Gerry Hassan, an academic and lifelong Dundee United fan, described himself as a 'tactical fan for the greater good', urging Hearts to win to challenge the 'suffocating' dominance of the Old Firm.
Hearts fans have travelled from as far as Australia for the occasion. Josh Mill, a 24-year-old season ticket holder living in Sydney, flew home via Doha, encountering five other Hearts fans on the same flight. Unable to secure one of the 752 away tickets, he will watch the game in Edinburgh with his family. 'There was no doubt in my mind. I’m not going to miss this,' he said. Dave McLaren, administrator of the Jambos Kickback fan forum, recalled near misses in 1965 and 1986, adding: 'It will be mayhem if we win.'
Labour MP Ian Murray, who helped save Hearts from financial collapse in 2013, said there would be 'tears from everyone' if the club wins. Edinburgh is preparing for a victory parade on Sunday, with roads closed and trams halted on Princes Street. Civic leaders have planned a reception at the city chambers.
Hearts' run has been built on resilience, with the team relying on a strong defence and the goals of Lawrence Shankland. The club's motto this season has been 'believe', a message displayed in tifos and signs at Tynecastle. Even if they fall short, Hassan noted: 'They have shown another Scotland is possible.'
