Hearts Ascendant: McInnes Eyes Title Glory Following Dramatic Derby Triumph
Hearts head coach Derek McInnes is embracing a pivotal weekend in the title race after his side secured a gritty 2-1 victory over Hibs at Easter Road. The result, coupled with a surprising Rangers collapse at Ibrox, has placed the Jam Tarts in a commanding position at the top of the table.
The Edinburgh derby began poorly for the visitors as Martin Boyle fired Hibs into an early lead. However, the momentum shifted when the hosts were reduced to nine men. Goalkeeper Raphael Sallinger and defender Felix Passlack both received red cards, leaving David Gray’s side to defend a slender lead under intense pressure.
Hearts eventually broke through in the 65th minute when Warren O’Hora turned the ball into his own net. The comeback was completed four minutes from time when Blair Spittal fired home a powerful strike to seal the points.
The Title Race Intensifies
The victory was made sweeter by news from Glasgow. Rangers suffered a 3-2 home defeat to Motherwell, causing Danny Rohl’s side to drop to third place.
| Team | Points | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Hearts | 1st | +X |
| Celtic | -3 | -5 vs Hearts |
| Rangers | -4 | N/A |
| Hearts now hold a three point lead over Celtic and a four point cushion over Rangers. The league leaders are set to host Rangers at Tynecastle a week on Monday in a match that could define their season. McInnes noted that while the weekend was significant for both Hearts and Celtic, his focus remains entirely on maintaining momentum. He highlighted the importance of winning the first game of the split to build confidence for the challenges ahead. |
Impact Players and Calm Execution
McInnes credited his substitutes for turning the tide in a match that presented unique tactical challenges. Sabah Kerjota was singled out for his composure on the wing, providing both assists after coming off the bench.
The manager also praised Blair Spittal for his clinical finish. McInnes observed that while other players had rushed their chances against the nine men of Hibs, Spittal provided the necessary “side foot and knee over the ball” technique to find the winner.
Regarding the looming possibility of a league title, McInnes remained grounded. He refused to entertain negative thoughts or the idea of being “disappointed” if they fell short, insisting that the squad must be prepared to go all the way rather than just settling for a commendable effort.
Disappointment for Nine-Man Hibs
For David Gray, the afternoon was defined by costly individual errors. The Hibs head coach acknowledged that both dismissals were correct. He described Sallinger’s handball outside the box and Passlack’s second yellow card as simple mistakes that ultimately cost his team the game.
Despite the loss, Gray took pride in the resilience shown by his remaining players. He argued that the squad deserved more for their defensive effort, noting that it took a deflection and an own goal for Hearts to finally break their resistance.