In a dramatic Edinburgh derby that saw the Scottish Premiership leaders pull off a late comeback, Blair Spittal emerged as the hero, netting an 86th‑minute winner to give Hearts a 2‑1 triumph over a severely reduced Hibernian side. The match, already charged with tension, turned into a showcase of late‑stage drama that could prove pivotal in the title race. The decisive strike came from Spittal, who entered the fray as a substitute and, with a deft curl from inside the box, secured the three points for Hearts. His goal capped a comeback that had seemed unlikely after Hibernian were forced to play with nine men following two red cards – first goalkeeper Raphael Sallinger and later defender Felix Passlack – both dismissed after VAR reviews in each half.
With the win, Hearts now sit three points clear of second‑placed Celtic and enjoy a four‑point cushion over Rangers, who occupy third place. The victory also adds a psychological boost ahead of a crucial showdown with Rangers at Easter Road next weekend, a match that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports on May 4.
The derby began with a burst of excitement. Early on, news of Rangers’ surprising defeat to Motherwell filtered through the stadium, energising the Hearts supporters who sensed a golden opportunity to widen the gap at the summit.
Hibernian, still smarting from their December derby win at Easter Road, entered the contest with determination, intent on denying Hearts any momentum. The first real chance fell to Hibs when Martin Boyle, a recognised derby specialist, pounced on a Jamie McGrath free‑kick and slotted a close‑range effort after just seven minutes. The early goal hinted at a potential upset, but the tide turned swiftly.
Seven minutes later, Sallinger attempted to play the ball out of his area after a long clearance, but VAR intervened, indicating the keeper had handled the ball outside the penalty box. Referee Don Robertson consulted the monitor and issued a straight red, leaving Hibs a man down. Playing with ten men, Hibernian tried to hold on, but the numerical disadvantage began to bite.
Claudio Braga missed two clear chances in the first half that could have levelled the score. The situation worsened when Passlack received a second yellow for a high challenge on Beni Baningime, prompting Robertson to send him off as well. Hibs were now reduced to nine players, a scenario that made a comeback virtually impossible. Hearts seized the initiative, pressing forward with relentless energy.
Marc Leonard struck the post, and wave after wave of attacks tested the resolve of Hibs' reserve goalkeeper, Jordan Smith, who had been thrust into the spotlight. The breakthrough finally arrived when Lawrence Shankland’s near‑post flick forced Warren O'Hora into an own‑goal, giving Hearts a 1‑0 lead.
Even with a two‑man advantage, Hearts found it challenging to extend their lead further, as Hibernian’s remaining defenders dug in and resisted. However, a well‑timed run down the right flank by Sabah Kerjota created space for Spittal, who calmly placed the ball into the bottom corner in the 86th minute. The goal sealed a dramatic comeback and ensured the three points for the league leaders.
Post‑match, Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland spoke to Sky Sports, emphasizing the team’s determination: “We want to do it. We’re close enough. We’ve worked so hard to get to this point and it’s important we go and try to finish it off.” His words reflected the collective belief that has propelled Hearts to the top of the table.
Manager Derek McInnes praised his side’s composure and discipline, noting the importance of staying focused amid the derby’s intensity. “We stayed calm, stayed disciplined. When we need someone, our captain steps up again.
Then we need the winner, and Blair Spittal delivers that kind of goal every day. It was a crucial side‑foot finish.” McInnes also highlighted the psychological edge gained from the victory, while acknowledging that the upcoming clash with Rangers would present a fresh challenge.
Sky Sports analyst Kris Boyd lauded Hearts’ consistency, pointing out the strong belief the squad has in their manager and the support of their fans. He also credited the club’s analytical approach, led by Tony Bloom, while stressing that ultimate success still hinges on the players’ unity and determination. Hibernian’s head coach David Gray reflected on his team’s resilience despite the adversity.
He praised the nine players who remained on the pitch after the 48th minute, noting their defensive tenacity and the crucial saves made by goalkeeper Jordan Smith. Gray admitted the red‑card decisions were correct, describing them as unfortunate mistakes that ultimately cost Hibs the match.
The derby’s aftermath leaves Hearts in a commanding position, with a comfortable lead over both Celtic and Rangers. As the season enters its final stages, the next few fixtures will be decisive. Hearts must maintain their focus and continue delivering performances of this calibre if they aim to clinch the Scottish Premiership title.
Meanwhile, Hibernian, now sitting in fifth place, will look to regroup and hope that the Glasgow clubs falter, giving them a chance to stay within striking distance. The drama of the Edinburgh derby, with its late winner and red‑card chaos, will be remembered as a defining moment in a tightly contested title race.