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.
9. Gary Lineker (Rest is Football)
"I saw Hearts came from behind. I know that Hibs, in the derby there, got a couple sent off. Rangers were two down, got to 2-2 and then lost. It’s really tight. I think most neutrals outside of Scotland, and probably a lot of people in Scotland, although pretty much everyone supports Celtic or Rangers I guess. But would like to see Hearts do it, because what is it, 40 years since a non-Rangers or Celtic team won? But it’s all a bit mad up there.” | Local Library Photo: Getty
10. Stuart Lovell (Sky)
"Sometimes you just run out of bodies defensively. Josh Campbell was right next to Spittal, he's got him, he's away from Spittal and now he leaves him. As a defender you need to choose whether to leave him one versus one or give him cover. He gives Obita cover but steps off Spittal and gives him a free shot at goal from 16 yards. Jordan Smith was magnificent for Hibs." | Local Library
11. Kevin Thomson (Scottish Football Podcast)
"I think they are (Hearts favourites for the title). My opinion was Rangers' tails were up. | SNS Group
12. Brian Graham (Clyde SSB)
"The two goals Hearts get, it's two deflections, you need those little lucky breaks to go in favour for you. The Hibs players were being stuffy and not giving many chances up." | SNS Group