On this Saturday, Hearts and Hibernian will face off in the 668th edition of their storied rivalry. The match is part of a celebration of the 150 years of rich competition between the two schools. It features Hearts, currently six points clear of their rivals at the top of the Scottish Premiership. Hibernian’s head coach, David Gray, has reiterated the importance of the encounter, regardless of league position.
The game will be hosted in Tynecastle Stadium. Get ready for a charged environment when these two teams battle for bragging rights! Hearts’ Lawrence Shankland is the league’s top scorer on 12 goals, one clear of Claudio Braga. This derby is not only about points on the table, it is about the pride and passion of both clubs and their supporters.
Coaches’ Perspectives on the Rivalry
David Gray underlined that emotional stakes of the derby go beyond league standing. He stated, “I think they’re always special games. It doesn’t matter if you’re top of the league or bottom of the league.” His sentiments ring true on both teams, emphasizing what makes this matchup so special and meaningful.
Gray further remarked, “In my opinion, it’s the greatest game to be involved in as a Hibs player. You should relish it and look forward to it because they are special occasions if you get the right result.” These comments show how seriously he takes the derby’s history and its significance to the players and fans on both sides of this fierce rivalry.
At the same time, Hearts’ newly appointed head coach – unnamed as of writing in media reports – knows what’s at stake this week. As Derek McInnes noted, “We’re all well aware, everybody that works for Hearts, that in the eyes of our supporters and everybody connected with the club, how this can feel like more than three points and that should never ever be forgotten.” This quote speaks to the fierce competition and emotion that both teams wear on their sleeves.
Recent Performances and Standings
Hearts come onto the field with an air of bravado. They have looked impressive in their opening round of early-season European qualifiers, demolishing FC Midtjylland, Partizan Belgrade and Legia Warsaw. They placed third in the league last season. Now, against all odds, they sit at the top of the table, having made history as the first club outside of the Old Firm to be in the top place at Christmas since Aberdeen in 1993.
Hibs’ leading goalscorer Kieron Bowie boasts just six goals to his name, making him the only defender in the top ten in this regard. Bowie previously opened the scoring at Easter Road in a recent encounter against Hearts, showcasing his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. The last matchup between these two teams had an incredible finish. Craig Halkett’s stoppage-time volley was as good as any to secure all three points for Hearts.
Looking Ahead to the Clash
As matchday now extends within reach, both teams stay committed to their goals. The stakes are high for Hibernian too as they look to open up more distance on their Edinburgh rivals. Gray holds his players to an extremely high standard. He wants them showing up at their absolute best. He remarked, “I don’t expect us to run harder just because we’re playing Hibs,” reinforcing his belief in his team’s preparation and capabilities.
The Edinburgh Derby will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, allowing fans to witness this historic rivalry unfold. Each team comes in hot and hungry to prove their superiority. No More Excuses Both sides’ results on this one will be instrumental in defining their 2023 campaigns.
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