Dwight Gayle came off the bench to score the winning goal at Tynecastle as Hibernian saw off rivals Hearts in a 2-1 victory.
Gayle, who was introduced in the 68th minute, got on the end of a Nicky Cadden cross to restore his side’s lead in the Edinburgh derby. The veteran striker’s neat finish ensured a first Hibs win at Tynecastle in five years.
Hibs struck first on derby day as Hearts’ Kye Rowles saw a ball deflected off his head into the back of his own net following an early corner. However, Hibs’ celebrations were delayed as referee Nick Walsh was recommended by VAR to check the opener.
Goalkeeper Craig Gordon appealed, suggesting Rocky Bushiri was impeding his vision as Josh Campbell’s header cannoned off Rowles, however following a lengthy check the goal stood.
Bushiri’s involvement in the goals wasn’t over as he sliced in an own goal of his own as half-time beckoned.
The goal just before the break appeared to pierce Hibs’ hope, but their late fightback rocked a Hearts side who had been looking for a winner of their own. A fifth straight victory for Hibs moves them into seventh, three points off the top six. Defeat for Hearts leaves them in 10th place.
Gray: It wasn’t pretty but important result for momentum
Hibernian boss David Gray:
“The fans have waited five years for that but I think we can play miles better but today was all about the result and keeping that momentum going. Credit to Hearts, I think they started the second half better, we were under the cosh a little bit. But a little tweak and the couple of subs that came on made a huge difference. At times it wasn’t pretty but I was delighted for Gayle coming off the bench to score.”
On the alleged racist incident:
“There’s no place for it, the most important thing is that it;’s been dealt with. Jordan’s come on the pitch and was fantastic when he came on. But as far as I’m concerned it’s unacceptable.”
Critchley: Poor goals cost us again
Hearts boss Neil Critchley:
“I don’t think we played well enough, we started the game okay but then conceded a really poor goal which left us chasing the game and i think that knocked us. Second half we had control of the game but then concede a poor goal again. That’s been the story of our season so far.
“Is it a concern? Of course it is, if there’s a trend then there’s a problem at 1-1 we’re pushing Hibs back into their own half. They produce a quality moment for their goal that we didn’t produce.”
