One of the biggest nights in Heart of Midlothian’s history awaits this evening, as a victory against Falkirk may crown them champions depending on the result at Fir Park.
Hearts were victorious in the last meeting between these two sides. However, Falkirk have already had delight at Tynecastle in the Scottish Cup this season when they knocked the league leaders out on penalties in early January.
Hearts have stayed at the top of the castle for majority of the season. And they could be given the grand prize this evening depending on the result between Motherwell and Celtic.
Should Hearts get the job done against Falkirk, who have two wins in six, and Motherwell were to defeat Celtic, Hearts would win the league with one game remaining.
However, if both teams gained three points, then it would go down to a final-day climax at Celtic Park. The Hoops would need three points for any hope in clinching the league trophy. The visitors would know that it would only take a point to be crowned champions.
But if Falkirk were to hold Hearts level or defeat Derek McInnes’ side, and Celtic were to win at Fir Park. Then Hearts would have to go to the East End of Glasgow and win.
Finally, if Hearts win this evening and Celtic draw, it would bring a big task for Martin O’ Neill’s side on the final day. Celtic would have to win by a large margin due to goal difference, which is plus three to Hearts as it stands.
Hearts’ draw to Motherwell saw Celtic close the gap to just one point, as they defeated rivals Rangers 3-1.
However, Tynecastle has been a cauldron this season. Hearts remain unbeaten in the league at their home ground and tonight could make it a season for the history books if results are to go their way.
Speaking before tonight’s match, Lawrence Shankland said: “I think the level of belief and confidence we’ve got down there from the amount of games we’ve been winning, it’s hard to take that away when that feeling is there.
“What we have done brilliantly is every time we’ve had a worse result than a win, we’ve always bounced back and won the next one.
“It’s going to be important for us, obviously, in the next two as well, but I think showing that resilience through the season, you can get into the rhythm of winning games, and it’s hard to stop that.”
Hearts will be without Marc Leonard and Craig Halkett after picking up injuries on Saturday’s visit to Motherwell.
Hearts player to watch: Lawrence Shankland
For the visitors, they have had a remarkable season, finishing in the top six in their return to the top-flight.
Falkirk currently sit in sixth place, five points behind Hibs with two games remaining.
Defeat to Hibs on Saturday, damaged their chances in pursuing European football. However, Hibs have Rangers and Motherwell to deal with before any hope in playing in the Conference League qualifiers depending on the Scottish Cup final result.
Regardless, Falkirk have had a tremendous season so far and have the chance this evening to cause serious damage in Hearts’ push for the league title.
Falkirk player to watch: Barney Stewart
