'That was for you, skipper' - Hearts dedicate semi-final victory over Hibs to late captain Marius Zaliukas

Hearts dedicated their Scottish Cup semi-final win to the memory of former captain Marius Zaliukas, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 36.

Marius Zaliukas lifts the Scottish Cup after Hearts' 5-1 win against Hibs in 2012

His death was confirmed by the Lithuanian Football Federation during the first half of the last-four encounter at the national stadium.

The big defender skippered Hearts to victory in the final against Edinburgh rivals Hibs in May 2012 towards the end of a seven-season stint at Tynecastle Park.

Hearts will now contest a second consecutive Scottish Cup final against Aberdeen or Celtic after beating the Easter Road side 2-1 after extra-time at a rainswept Hampden with Liam Boyce’s penalty sealing a return visit to Glasgow in December.

In a heartfelt tweet sent moments after passage to the Scottish Cup final was confirmed, Hearts said: “Everyone at Heart of Midlothian Football Club is devastated to learn of the passing of Scottish Cup-winning captain Marius Zaliukas.

“A full tribute will follow, but for now we send our love to Marius' family and friends.

“That win was for you, skipper.”