Rather fittingly, on a day when post-match fisticuffs, handbags and harsh words dominated much of the agenda, there was a distinctly pugilistic feel to Hearts’ combative performance against Hibs.
Ahead on points, needing only to keep their old rivals at bay, they absorbed virtually everything Lee Johnson’s men could throw at them. Despite playing a solid hour – nearer 80 minutes, once time added on was factored in – with 10 men following Alex Cochrane’s red card. If they were never likely to be awarded extra merit for style, that was never the point on a day when a draw would always be good enough to clinch fourth spot in the Scottish Premiership. On this occasion, they needed only show the spirit of Rocky Balboa, rather than the skills of Rocky Marciano.
It helped, of course, that they were able to take the lead so early. And through such an obvious route. The throw-in that leads to the opener came from a Hibs corner that Zander Clark launched up field for the always willing Josh Ginnelly to chase (see Photo 1). That would be a useful out ball for Hearts on more than one occasion.
