Hibs Scottish Cup win: Five key points

David Gray celebrates scoring the winning goal. Picture: PA

David Gray is now the ultimate Hibs legend

The captain was excellent all afternoon and even after taking a late knock, he still had the desire to win a 50-50 ball which helped get his team up the pitch to win the corner that led to his incredible winner. The Roslin boy, who has been the perfect skipper for Alan Stubbs all season long, will never have to buy a drink in Leith again. Then again, neither will any of his team-mates.

Hibs had Rangers on toast in the opening 25 minutes

Hibs started with a high tempo while Rangers looked like they’d been on the beach for the last three weeks. The Easter Road side raced into a third minute lead and, with their opponents rattled, had plenty opportunities to turn the screw and take control of the final.

Hibs threatened to blow it

As has been the case in several big matches, Hibs failed to capitalise on their early dominance and allowed Rangers back into the game. Kenny Miller duly equalised and gave the Ibrox side fresh impetus. Although Hibs finished the first half on top, they should have been going in at the interval with some kind of lead to show for their dominance. They somehow ended up having to battle back from 2-1 down with ten minutes left.

Anthony Stokes showed his big-game pedigree

Stokes had gradually been coming to the boil in a Hibs jersey over the past couple of months and he produced his best performance yet at Hampden. After being man of the match in the final for Celtic against Hibs three years ago, the Irishman set about trying to influence another showpiece match when he gave Hibs the lead with a composed finish. Stokes continued to cause problems for Rangers every time he touched the ball and produced a fine headed equaliser when his team looked down and out.

Hibs now have a launchpad for next season

The Scottish Cup win will galvanise the club like never before. The jubilant scenes this weekend, allied to the prospect of European football, can help coax key players to stay at Easter Road while also rallying a previously beleaguered support for another season in the Championship. The victory opens up fresh revenue streams which will help compensate for remaining outside the Premiership.