5 Heart-Stopping Moments In Hearts Vs Hibs Clashes

In the storied rivalry between Heart of Midlothian and Hibernian, better known as Hearts vs Hibs, fans have experienced countless moments of tension, thrill, and pure footballing ecstasy. This iconic Scottish derby, marked by intense passion and dramatic turnarounds, has given rise to numerous heart-stopping moments that have etched themselves into football folklore. Today, we journey through the five most gripping and unforgettable moments from this fierce contest.

The Miracle at Tynecastle 🏟️

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The year was 2012, and what was to be remembered as "The Miracle at Tynecastle" unfolded before a packed stadium. The match was crucial for both sides in the quest for European football, but it was Hearts that etched its name in history.

• The Scoreline: 5-1.
• The Moment: Hearts, trailing 1-0 at halftime, managed a sensational turnaround with Rudi Skacel's brace, and goals from Santana, Holt, and Novikovas.
• The Atmosphere: The home crowd's roar was so loud it could be heard miles away, as each goal was met with wild celebrations.

<p class="pro-note">🎉 Note: This match epitomized the fierce spirit of Edinburgh derbies, showcasing the unpredictability and the never-say-die attitude of Hearts fans and players alike.</p>

The Hand of Friend

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In 1989, one of the most controversial and dramatic moments in the history of the derby occurred. Hibs had seemingly secured a late victory when defender Paul 'The Hand of Friend' took matters into his own hands, quite literally, by handling the ball to prevent a certain goal.

• The Controversy: With the referee not seeing the handball, Friend's action went unpunished, leading to widespread debate and anger from Hibs fans and players.
• The Impact: This incident fueled debates on sportsmanship and the integrity of the game, becoming a talking point for years.

<p class="pro-note">⚽️ Note: The 'Hand of Friend' incident is often cited as a prime example of the lengths players would go to secure victory in this heated rivalry.</p>

The Play-Off Final Drama 🎭

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The 2018 Scottish Premiership play-off final saw both teams battling for a spot in the top flight. The final at Easter Road had everything one could ask for in a football match.

• The Stakes: A place in the Premiership was on the line.
• The Game: Hibs won the first leg 0-2 at Tynecastle, setting up a thrilling encounter in the second leg. Hearts, with their backs against the wall, fought back and scored twice in extra time, forcing a penalty shoot-out.
• The Shootout: After missing two penalties, Hearts' keeper Zlamal became the hero by saving four Hibs penalties, ensuring a dramatic 5-5 penalty victory for Hearts.

<p class="pro-note">🔥 Note: This match not only kept fans on the edge of their seats but also showcased the unpredictable nature of football and the derby's capacity for drama.</p>

The Miracle at Easter Road 🌟

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Just like the earlier miracle at Tynecastle, Easter Road had its own share of incredible moments. In 2006, Hearts were seemingly cruising to victory when an unexpected twist turned the game on its head.

• The Scene: Hearts were leading 2-0 with 80 minutes on the clock.
• The Turnaround: Hibs launched a ferocious comeback, scoring three goals in the final 10 minutes through Ivanauskas, Sproule, and Riordan to snatch an improbable victory from the jaws of defeat.

<p class="pro-note">🤯 Note: This match remains one of the most stunning comebacks in Edinburgh derby history, epitomizing the sheer unpredictability of the fixture.</p>

The Ninian Stand Invasion 🏟️

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In the late 1980s, a dramatic scene unfolded at Easter Road. A tense and close-fought match was on the verge of spilling over, quite literally, as Hearts fans invaded the Ninian Stand, creating a moment of mayhem that encapsulated the fervor of the rivalry.

• The Incident: With the match in the balance, fans stormed onto the pitch, leading to chaotic scenes that are still talked about today.
• The Aftermath: The game was halted, highlighting the depth of emotions and the intense rivalry between the two clubs.

<p class="pro-note">🔁 Note: This moment of chaos highlighted the passion fans have for their clubs and how the derby can ignite even the most controlled environments.</p>

Each of these moments not only defines the rivalry between Hearts and Hibs but also adds to the tapestry of Scottish football's rich history. These incidents, from miraculous comebacks to controversial plays, remind us why the Edinburgh derby is one of the most electrifying fixtures in football. The passion, the drama, and the relentless drive for victory create an atmosphere that few other rivalries can match. While the results of these matches may fade, the memories and emotions they stirred will linger in the hearts of fans for generations to come.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What makes the Hearts vs Hibs derby unique?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>The Hearts vs Hibs derby, often referred to as the Edinburgh derby, stands out due to its deep-rooted history, geographical proximity, and intense rivalry between the two clubs. The cultural significance, fan passion, and historical moments add to its uniqueness.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How do fans contribute to the atmosphere of the derby?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Fans of both Hearts and Hibs are known for their passionate support, with displays of tifos, chanting, and songs that fill the stadiums with an electrifying atmosphere. Their energy and the rivalry's history significantly enhance the game's intensity.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Are there any famous penalties in the derby's history?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, the 2018 play-off final's penalty shootout stands out. After missing two penalties, Hearts' goalkeeper Zlamal saved four Hibs penalties to clinch promotion for Hearts, making it one of the most dramatic moments in the derby's history.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>