The pundits have been out in force after Hearts dramatically defeated nine-man Hibs 2-1 in the Edinburgh derby on Sunday.
Goalkeeper Raphael Sallinger and right-back Felix Passlack’s red cards either side of half-time for the hosts cancelled out their good start of a Martin Boyle opener. It was the Jambos who’d eventually come out on top through a Warren O’Hora own goal and Blair Spittal strike to ensure they stay top of the Premiership.
Celtic’s win over Falkirk moves them second and within three points of Derek McInnes’ men but Rangers’ costly loss to Motherwell now sees them four off the pace, ahead of Hearts and the Light Blues colliding next Monday. Four games remain as Hearts look to clinch a first title since 1960, and Hibs seek European qualifiers, with pundits giving their takes. Here’s 13 pundits and their takes on the latest Edinburgh derby.
1. Ryan McGowan (Sky)
"It's probably what Hearts deserved. Kerjota got one versus one and Spittal is just trying to put it on target." | SNS Group
2. John Collins (Sportsound)
"That looked to me as if it was outside the box. He could have taken a step back. From a spectators' point of view, the red cards spoil it because it's no longer an even match, because it's one team attacking the other. Tough for the Hibs fans to watch. You've got to feel for David Gray. They take the lead and things are looking OK and the goalkeeper goes and gets sent off. There's nothing you can do as a manager. Passlack, he knows he's got a yellow card. Studs up - the referee's got no choice, second yellow card. You just feel for the remaining Hibs players that are on the pitch." | Local Library
3. John Robertson (Sky)
"It's huge. We said at the time there was worry that the game was running away. Hibs got everyone around the ball. They put their bodies on the line. They defended but we just felt that something was going to happen. It's huge. We said before if they could turn it around with the Rangers result, what an opportunity now next week, because Celtic have to come to Easter Road. That will be a tough game. Hearts, technically, could take Rangers right out of the race next Monday night." | SNS Group
4. The Ref's view (Des Roache and Steve Conroy podcast)
"It’s a red card, absolute madness to catch the ball there. However, we are surprised that it is being ruled as DOGSO." | SNS Group