Edinburgh | Hibs fans sing 'Sunshine on Leith' after semi-final win

A memorable victory for Hibs over Hearts at Hampden Park

What followed was a stirring rendition of 'Sunshine on Leith'

Author | Bruce G

A side without a win in six games and rooted to the bottom of the Scottish top flight. Yet yesterday, all of that was forgotten. Finally, a Hampden derby did not bring an end to Hibs' cup ambitions. This was a victory to savour.

Reedijk had urged patience. At Paisley on Wednesday, his first win appeared within reach before a late equaliser exposed the team's lack of cutting edge. Similar shortcomings were evident in Glasgow, but this time, finding the net twice proved enough.

More than anything, it was Hibs' midfield that won them this derby. Newell was commanding and composed in the centre, dictating the tempo and providing the platform for his side.

Hibs have too often been described as feeble and fragile, but yesterday they were strong, resilient and determined. They gave everything in the second half, particularly when they found themselves under sustained pressure.

For all Hearts' dominance, goalkeeper Raphael Sallinger was rarely called upon, thanks to the heroic defending in front of him.

Emotional scenes at full-time 

When the final whistle sounded and Hearts supporters began streaming out, Hibs' fans were left to celebrate something they have not enjoyed against their city rivals at Hampden for far too long: sheer relief, pride and glory.