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Edinburgh Live
Edinburgh Live
Sport
Ben Banks

Hibs fans launch pitch invasion as derby exuberance spills onto pitch after Martin Boyle heroics

Hibs fans stormed the pitch at Easter Road as their side salvaged a late 1-1 draw with rivals Hearts in this season's first Edinburgh derby.

It looked for all the world that Robbie Neilson's side were going to come away from this one with a victory thanks to a goal from Lawrence Shankland in the first half. Martin Boyle returned to Hibs on Saturday eight months after leaving for Saudi Arabia and Al-Faislay with his return to Leith turning into a triumphant one.

He stabbed home a late effort at the back post to make sure Lee Johnson's men took home a point for their efforts after last weekend's 1-0 win away at St Johnstone was one in stoppage time. That goal was too much to handle for some Hibs fans, with a small section of them invading the park and celebrating. Pyrotechnics were also launched from the home support.

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It came in a game marred with controversy as Hearts' Alex Cochrane was also struck with missiles when taking a throw-in near home supporters.

The Jambos travelling faithful also let off pyro and smoke bombs when Shankland notched his side into a first half lead.

Stewards rushed to the scene to clear the pitch so the game could continue after Boyle's goal, with the final whistle blown moments later.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, Hibs chief executive Ben Kensell said: "We can't condone it but obviously sometimes the passion of what happens and the situation and how it unfolds dictates some of that.

"Obviously there are things we need to look at. We would ask our fans to always act appropriately. There are a few incidents we will look at post-match.

"Ultimately, the passion is what football is all about. We have to address then internally and we will.

"But ultimately it has got to be a safe environment here at Easter Road and I believe it is."

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- Darren McGregor on his Hibs 'buzz' with Rocky Bushiri and Kyle McClelland verdicts provided

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