The Scotsman team’s cup final predictions

Published on Friday 18 May 2012 22:02

THE Scotsman’s sports writers give their verdict on tomorrow’s all-Edinburgh cup clash at Hampden

STEPHEN HALLIDAY

Hibernian 1, Hearts 2

IT is difficult to disagree with the bookmakers’ assessment of today’s momentous showdown. Hearts, by virtue of their more impressive form over the course of the season, merit their status as favourites and have the ammunition to bear it out. A highly-motivated Hibs side should make it a tense and closely contested final as they pursue a special place in the club’s history but Hearts appear to be the more complete outfit as they look to extend their rivals’ long barren run in the competition.

ALAN PATTULLO

Hibernian 2, Hearts 1

Few can argue that Hearts, if they play to the level they are capable of, are a better, more powerful side than Hibs. But that is not a given on today of all days, when the burden of being favourites could sit heavily on their shoulders. Leigh Griffiths and Garry O’Connor give Hibs hope.

STUART BATHGATE

Hibernian 1, Hearts 2

In several recent derbies Hearts have been the better team but have had to be patient before finally imposing themselves on Hibs. That should be the pattern today if they play to form, with their midfield in particular having the edge. Hibs will be encouraged if Craig Beattie does not make it, but Hearts should still have matchwinners in Rudi Skacel and Ian Black.

MARTIN DEMPSTER

Hibernian 2, Hearts 3

When Hearts lifted the Scottish Cup in 1998, the success was based on perfect planning after Jim Jefferies took his squad away to Stratford-upon-Avon beforehand to work on a shape that would counter a Rangers side that had been their nemesis in the league that season. Hibs head into this final in a similar position and Pat Fenlon could have a surprise up his sleeve, too, after taking his team to Dublin this week to prepare away from prying eyes. If his gameplan is sound and the likes of Leigh Griffiths can concentrate on what he’s good at, then Hibs will certainly be in with a shout. But, based on the fact they’ve got more players used to an occasion like this, I think Hearts will just sneak it.

TOM ENGLISH

Hibernian 0, Hearts 2

In their head-to-heads this season, Hearts have won three out three, have scored seven goals to Hibs’ one and even then the Hibs goal was an own goal. If Hearts produce somewhere close to their best stuff they will win. They are simply better than Hibs.

MOIRA GORDON

Hibernian 0, Hearts 2

The league table tells us that Hearts are the stronger side, as does the fact that they have not lost to their city rivals in ten games. Both teams possess matchwinners but the Tynecastle team have the stronger midfield to supply them with the ball.

ANDREW SMITH

Hibernian 1, Hearts 3

Strip this final right down and it is between the SPL’s fifth-placed side who just seem to have the muscle and the measure of opponents relieved that will still be in the top flight next season.

Taken from the Scotsman