THE BIG VERDICT.

They've graced the jerseys of both Scottish Cup Final clubs, they've suffered and celebrated through the years in maroon and light blue.

Here, Mailsport's panel of Hearts and Rangers experts give their verdict on the Jambos' day in the sun.

DAVID HAGEN: I'VE seen penalties given for a lot less than the one Stevie Fulton got in the first minute but Sergio Porrini and Ian Ferguson won't be happy with the job they did trying to defend it.

But the early goal put the onus on Gers to make a game of it.

The one thing I'll always remember is Stephane Adam's opportunism. Amoruso didn't get to the ball quickly enough and he sneaked in to shoot past Goram.

Although it was typical of Ally McCoist to score late on and take the drama right to the death.

DEREK FERGUSON: RANGERS tried hard enough but the truth is they lacked any kind of creativity until Ian Durrant came off the bench.

He made more passes in 23 minutes than the rest of them did in the entire match. They needed him or someone like my younger brother Barry. He watched the match with me but walked out in frustration with 15 minutes left.

I think that tells its own story but you still have to say all credit to Jim Jefferies whose tactics were brilliant from start to finish.

CAMMY FRASER: I WAS really pleased for Hearts but it was a shocker. Rangers hardly put anything together and Hearts only had two shots at goal.

Rangers must rebuild. Take Laudrup out and they're struggling.

But it's great for the Jambos and my pal Alex Bell who is Hearts through and through. They'll be having some party.

DAVE McPHERSON: I KNOW it's hard for the Rangers lads because I've been there myself. But this means so much to everyone at Hearts.

Hopefully we can go on to greater things but it was important to show we can win trophies, especially against the Old Firm. But I'm sure Rangers will be back.

SANDY CLARK: I'M delighted for the Hearts fans. It's been a long time coming for them.

I feel particularly pleased for John Robertson who has worked so hard for years at Tynecastle and finally got his reward.

It's a shame for Walter Smith and for Rangers and I feel sorry for them that they've finished the season empty-handed.

They showed good spirit to come back into it but their goal came too late to make a real difference.

DAVIE KIRKWOOD: I FELT Hearts played really well and Stevie Fulton was my man of the match. He ran the show in the middle of the park.

I have to say that I felt the first penalty decision - the one Hearts got in the first minute - was soft.

But the second one involving McCoist was a good call. The ref got it right.

After all that happened to him two years ago I was delighted for Gilles Rousset who also had an excellent game.

But if there is one man who emerges with massive credit from the game it has to be Jim Jefferies who got it spot on with his tactics.

Taken from the Daily Record