Hibs toast win over Hearts - but will they kick on before cup final?

What the report says

Hibernian’s semi-final victory over Heart of Midlothian at Hampden Park ended a long run of derby disappointments at the national stadium and sent the Edinburgh club into next month’s Premier Sports Cup final against Rangers. BBC Sport Scotland reported that the win was especially significant for new head coach Marink Reedijk, who secured his first victory in charge at the fifth attempt, while midfielder Joe Newell was named player of the match.

The game started badly for Hibs when Claudio Braga scored early for Hearts, but Hibernian recovered to produce what the report described as a spirited and organised display in front of a large travelling support. The article highlighted the atmosphere created by Hibs fans, including the familiar club anthem Sunshine on Leith, as the team celebrated a breakthrough win at Hampden after repeated previous defeats there against Hearts.

Beyond the derby result, BBC Sport noted that Hibs remain under pressure in the Scottish Premiership. The club were bottom of the table before the semi-final and have won only two of their last 11 league matches, so the report framed the cup success as a possible turning point rather than an end point. Newell said the squad now need to use the performance as confidence and “kick on” in the league.

Hibs have about six weeks before the final and several league fixtures in between, including trips to Aberdeen, Motherwell and Kilmarnock, plus home games against Dundee clubs. The article suggested the final against Rangers will also be a chance for Hibernian to chase their first trophy since 2016.