Hearts claimed a dramatic late victory over Hibernian in a frantic Edinburgh derby, with Blair Spittal scoring his first goal of the season to secure a priceless win. The result moves Hearts three points clear of Celtic and four ahead of Rangers in a pivotal day in the Scottish Premiership title race.
Hibs had taken an early lead and then battled bravely despite receiving two red cards, leaving them with nine men for much of the second half. Hearts pressed relentlessly and finally found an equaliser when a cross from Sabah Kerjota deflected in off Hibernian defender Warren O'Hara. With time running out, Spittal met a cutback and drilled the ball inside the near post to spark wild celebrations among the away fans.
"Unusual way to win a game, it's hard to play against a team that's two light," said Hearts manager Derek McInnes. "I thought we stayed calm, stayed disciplined – I thought the work rate Hibs put in was sensational. To win any derby, you have to do a lot right, but I think we just about deserved it."
The result was made even more significant by Rangers' defeat to Motherwell, as the Glasgow side slipped four points behind Hearts. Celtic also lost ground, with both Glasgow clubs potentially looking over their shoulders as the season reaches its climax.
Hibs had taken the lead through a strong start, and despite the red cards, they produced a heroic defensive display, with goalkeeper Jordan Smith making several key saves. But the numerical disadvantage eventually proved decisive as Hearts took full advantage to claim all three points in a match full of drama and incident.
