Hearts boss Derek McInnes described the controversial last-minute penalty awarded to Celtic to take the Scottish Premiership title race down to the final day as “disgusting”.
Hearts, bidding to win a first league title since 1960, were on course to take a three-point advantage and a superior goal difference to Celtic Park for a final day shoot-out after beating Falkirk 3-0.
Celtic, though, kept the title in their hands as Kelechi Iheanacho’s 99th-minute penalty secured a 3-2 win at Motherwell, but in highly dubious circumstances as Motherwell’s Sam Nicholson was ruled to have handled.
Nicholson, though, appeared to have headed the ball away and it left McInnes feeling it was “us against everybody” in the title race. “It’s such a bad decision,” McInnes said. “It is quite disgusting, to be honest.”
Former England striker Gary Lineker agreed, posting on X: “This might be the worst VAR decision I’ve seen (and there’s a lot of competition). Extraordinary given the significance.”
Hearts can still win the title if they avoid defeat at Celtic on Saturday, while the hosts need to win to claim a 14th title in 15 years and momentum is on their side after six wins in a row.
Hearts v Falkirk LIVE: Latest updates as historic title on the line
- Hearts win but Celtic score controversial late penalty to take title to final day
- ‘Worst VAR decision ever’: Hearts rage at ‘disgusting’ Celtic penalty call
- Hearts go to Celtic on Saturday and will win first title in 66 years if they avoid defeat
- Celtic must beat Hearts at home, by any margin, to win 14th title in 15 seasons
- Report: In an controversial title race, Hearts now know what they’re up against
How to watch Scottish Premiership title decider
17:59 , Jamie BraidwoodCeltic host Hearts in a Scottish Premiership title decider as the top two teams in the league meet on the final day at Parkhead to conclude a thrilling season.
Hearts, bidding to win their first league title since 1960 and disrupt the Old Firm’s 41-year dominance of Scottish football, have led the way since September and are a point ahead.
Derek McInnes and his players can make history if the avoid defeat, but they will have to recover from having their hopes of a simpler scenario dashed at the death on Wednesday night.
That’s after Celtic, the champions in 13 of the last 14 seasons, secured a 3-2 win at Motherwell via a hugely contentious penalty decision.
It means Martin O’Neill’s team can defend their title as long as they beat Hearts in front of their own fans, having won their last six games in a row to take the title race to the final day.
Is Celtic v Hearts on TV? How to watch Scottish Premiership title decider
Hearts take ‘us against everybody’ approach into Celtic showdown
16:58 , Jamie Braidwoodn a corner of Celtic Park, a small pocket of around 750 fans will gather in the hope of witnessing a day many believed would never come.
They will be the lucky few successful in the ballot for the tiny allocation of away tickets as Hearts attempt to make history and win a first league title in 66 years.
As if to underline the size of their collective task, they will be outnumbered by around 80 to one.
Backed by a home crowd of 60,000, Celtic need any sort of win to lift a 14th title in 15 seasons, while Hearts require at least a draw to become the first team outside of the Old Firm to be crowned champions since 1985.
Hearts enter ‘lion’s den’ and Celtic showdown with title on the line
Celtic captain Callum McGregor: 'We deserve to take it to the last day'
12:34 , Jamie Braidwood"But with this team, how many goals have we scored in the last minute? Sometimes you need things to drop for you if you’re going to win titles, especially with how far we’ve come from since late December to still be in it, now with it all in your own hands.
"We deserve to take it to the last day."
Lawrence Shankland: 'We go there confident. It's a 90-minute cup final'
11:34 , Mike Jones"We were fully prepared for going to Celtic Park at the weekend and needing a result. Obviously we were aware the situation could have changed but all that was in our heads was to win tonight and go again at the weekend.
"We've been there and won a couple of times during my time as a Hearts player. We go there confident and we've been top of the league all season.
"It's a 90-minute cup final, it's as simple as that. If you offered us that at the start of the season we would have taken it all day.
"It's going to be two teams looking to go for it and going for a title and it'll be exciting for everyone."
Hearts will be going into the 'lion's den' against Celtic
10:34 , Jamie BraidwoodHearts boss Derek McInnes: “We’re going into a stadium of 60,000, the place will be rocking. We'll look forward to it once it comes along. I think for us to have that type of game, that type of stage, we deserve that and we look forward to it. We're not gonna shy away from it, we've got a good record against Celtic.
“Martin's done a brilliant job in getting Celtic where they are. It's not winner take all because we can get a point, but it's difficult. Players are tuned to win, managers are tuned to win. So you don't go for 90-odd minutes and just play for a draw.
“It’s going to feel like going into the lion’s den. Even though we've been top of the league since September or so, we’re still going to be the underdog.
“For us to be competing with Celtic, with the money they've got and everything they've got at their disposal, it's a huge effort for our team and we look forward to it.”
What do Hearts need to win the league? Scottish Premiership title permutations
10:04 , Jamie BraidwoodHow can Hearts win the league on Saturday? After a thrilling title race full of twists and turns, it all comes down to Saturday lunchtime.
If Hearts win, they win the title. If Hearts draw, they win the title. But if they lose, it will now be Celtic’s championship.
What do Celtic need on the final day? It’s simple for Celtic: they must beat Hearts on Saturday.
Their last-minute winner on Wednesday means they no longer have to win by six goals. A win, no matter the score, will do the job.
What happens if they finish level on points? The tiebreakers are goal difference, then goals scored, then head-to-head points. But the teams now cannot finish level on points.
In an increasingly controversial title race, Hearts now know what they’re up against
09:34 , Jamie Braidwood, at TynecastleFor Hearts, the task remains the same as was expected before tonight: Derek McInnes and his players will need to go to Celtic on Saturday and avoid defeat to the champions of 13 of the last 14 years on the final day of the season.
But the sense of Celtic’s inevitability feels greater now after Kelechi Iheanacho’s 99th-minute penalty, awarded by VAR for a handball in the Motherwell area.
The evidence that the ball struck the hand of the Motherwell defender Sam Nicholson when he headed away a long throw in stoppage time appeared to be inconclusive, to say the least.
In an increasingly controversial title race, Hearts now know what they’re up against
'Another dubious call that goes in Celtic's favour'
08:34 , Jamie BraidwoodFormer Rangers striker Kris Boyd was also stunned by the decision. “It clearly hits his head,” he told Sky Sports. “If it hits your hand, it just drops down at your feet.
“The non-red card for Alistair Johnston against Rangers and now that tonight. Another dubious call that goes in Celtic's favour. Questions will be asked.”
Celtic boss Martin O'Neill: 'It was a penalty'
08:04 , Jamie Braidwood"Obviously, we got a penalty, which looks as if it's a pretty clear cut," O'Neill said. "He's given it for the handball, and also an elbow on top of that there as well. Obviously, I'm delighted for the team and delighted for the supporters."
Celtic v Rangers title race 'could go either way'
07:34 , Mike JonesMartin O’Neill says that Celtic have done a fine job of taking the title race to the very last day of the season and admitted he has been impressed by the fight shown by his players.
He told BBC Scotland: "That's what we wanted to do at the beginning of the week to try and take it into the final game of the season and the players have certainly done that. It was a magnificent effort today.
"We may not win it, but what we have done is that we have fought really impressively, I think, throughout these last number of weeks.
“When we lost at Tannadice, I keep going back to that, it was unimaginable for us to get back into the race in many aspects, thinking that you couldn't even drop a point, and for us to win the league, we couldn't drop a point from then on in.
"I think the players have shown enormous character to keep fighting right to the very, very end, and they've done that again.
"It could go either way, could go any way, but at least we've taken it to the final game."
Celtic’s penalty 'one of the worst decisions of all time'
07:04 , Jamie BraidwoodFormer Scotland international Don Hutchinson called Celtic’s penalty ”one of the worst decisions of all time”.
“You don’t get that much power with your hand. It hits his forehead,” he posted on X. “Again the ref did NOT give it on field. So according to law, it’s not ‘clear and obvious’.”
🗣️ “It’s three massive calls in the last few games. There will be serious questions asked about it. Rightfully so.”
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) May 13, 2026
Kris Boyd, John Robertson and Paul Hartley discuss Celtic’s LATE penalty decision in-depth ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/lZy9hp7Qpy
'This might be the worst VAR decision I’ve seen'
06:35 , Jamie BraidwoodFormer England striker Gary Lineker called Celtic’s penalty one of the worst VAR decisions he had ever seen.
Over on X he wrote: “This might be the worst VAR decision I’ve seen (and there’s a lot of competition). Extraordinary given the significance.”
🟢 Here's the incident that resulted in Celtic's winning penalty at Fir Park, following a VAR check!
— Sky Sports Scotland (@ScotlandSky) May 13, 2026
Motherwell vs Celtic & Hearts vs Falkirk reaction | Sky Sports Football now 📺 pic.twitter.com/kwFO6mOH7t
Jens Berthel Askou on 'unreal moment' penalty was given
05:34 , Jamie BraidwoodMotherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou was as enraged over the penalty decision as Derek McInnes.
"I think the big question is, what are we even doing here, when things like that happen? I'm in total shock. I thought I'd seen it all this year, but apparently I haven't. It's shocking, it's a shame for the game.
"Let's say he actually did touch his hands, which I can't see, no matter what angle I look at... Also, you can see the way the ball gets power, where the kid connects with the head and has a lot of power when it goes through. It's a crazy thing to be part of, and I think the game deserved a lot better than that."
Derek McInnes on controversial penalty: 'Us against everybody'
04:34 , Jamie Braidwood“It feels like us against everybody. When you see the two [decisions] that we didn't get at the weekend and then you see that… How they can arrive at that situation? Celtic have a touch, more than a touch, of fortune in getting that penalty. I'm getting more and more dismayed at some of the decisions that our referees are coming up with.
“It's such a bad decision. Motherwell must feel totally aggrieved with it. I had to keep looking at it. thought I was missing something when I was watching it. I had to ask, what am I looking for here? It's actually quite disgusting.”
Derek McInnes on Celtic: 'They deserve a lot of credit'
03:34 , Jamie Braidwood“I think Martin [O’Neill] deserves a lot of credit, because they're on such a good run of form.
“Us and Celtic have been the best teams over the last wee while. Obviously we've been top of the league for a long time, but like any true champion, there's a pride there and you can see that. I think what Martin's done is made Celtic more of a team than individuals.
“I thought that looking at the Old Firm game at the weekend and I think that comes from the manager. So sometimes in life you've just got to go and beat the champion again and take what you want to be yours, whether it's boxing or any sort of sport.
“So that's what it looks like we're gonna have to do. We don't need to win, but certainly need to get down there and put in a performance, and it's set up perfectly.”
'“I'd heard there was a penalty - I didn't need to ask who for
02:34 , Jamie BraidwoodDerek McInnes on feeling “flat” at full-time despite Hearts going into the final day at the top of the table.
“It's hard not to feel that everybody felt a bit flat and it wasn't your normal final home game.
“I'd heard there was a 96th minute penalty… I didn't need to ask who for, and it was going to VAR. Obviously it's Celtic who have scored.”
A 90-minute final
01:34 , Mike JonesThe last time two opponents went head-to-head for the title on the final day of the season was 1991, when Rangers beat Aberdeen at Ibrox.
Who will triumph in 2026?
Shankland's thoughts on title race
Thursday 14 May 2026 00:34 , Mike JonesHearts captain Lawrence Shankland stopped by BBC Sportsound and spoke about the title race.
He said: "We were fully prepared for going to Celtic Park at the weekend and needing a result. Obviously we were aware the situation could have changed but all that was in our heads was to win tonight and go again at the weekend.
"We've been there and won a couple of times during my time as a Hearts player. We go there confident and we've been top of the league all season.
"It's a 90-minute cup final, it's as simple as that. If you offered us that at the start of the season we would have taken it all day.
"It's going to be two teams looking to go for it and going for a title and it'll be exciting for everyone."
Hearts unbeaten against Celtic
Wednesday 13 May 2026 23:54 , Mike JonesThis season Hearts have been in the type of form that wins league titles. They are now just 90 minutes away from securing a historic win but it is Celtic who stand in their way.
But, Hearts are unbeaten against the defending champions this season, winning two of the three meetings, including a 2-1 triumph at Celtic Park in December.
Can they do it again?
‘Worst VAR decision ever’: Hearts rage at ‘disgusting’ Celtic penalty call which keeps title race alive
Wednesday 13 May 2026 23:48 , Kieran JacksonHearts boss Derek McInnes slammed a “disgusting” late penalty awarded to Celtic on Wednesday night – which stretched a dramatic Scottish Premiership title race to the final day.
Hearts, eyeing their first title in 66 years, had one hand on the trophy after their 3-0 win over Falkirk, with Celtic drawing 2-2 away at Motherwell. If it ended that way, Celtic would have needed to win by six goals or more in their final day showdown on Saturday to win the title.
‘Worst VAR decision ever seen’: Hearts rage at ‘disgusting’ Celtic penalty call
Celtic will get the job done
Wednesday 13 May 2026 23:45 , Mike JonesFormer Celtic defender, Darren O'Dea, spoke about his old club’s chances of winning the title on Saturday and told BBC Radio Scotland:
“I don't think Celtic will blow Hearts away by any means but I do think they will get the job done.
“The energy from the crowd will be through the roof.”
Celtic now favourites for title
Wednesday 13 May 2026 23:34 , Mike JonesWith Celtic only being one point behind Hearts in the Scottish Premiership table it’s all or nothing in the final match of the season this Saturday.
The two title rivals face off against each other at Celtic Park and it is the Hoops who are the favourites to win the game and the league with bookers.
Celtic are 4/6 favourites to pip Hearts to the post and it’ll be a fascinating encounter.
Hearts only need to avoid defeat while Celtic need to win but with a home crowd backing them, Celtic probably do have a slight advantage.
It could go either way says O'Neill
Wednesday 13 May 2026 23:24 , Mike JonesMartin O’Neill says that Celtic have done a fine job of taking the title race to the very last day of the season and admitted he has been impressed by the fight shown by his players.
He told BBC Scotland: "That's what we wanted to do at the beginning of the week to try and take it into the final game of the season and the players have certainly done that. It was a magnificent effort today.
"We may not win it, but what we have done is that we have fought really impressively, I think, throughout these last number of weeks.
“When we lost at Tannadice, I keep going back to that, it was unimaginable for us to get back into the race in many aspects, thinking that you couldn't even drop a point, and for us to win the league, we couldn't drop a point from then on in.
"I think the players have shown enormous character to keep fighting right to the very, very end, and they've done that again.
"It could go either way, could go any way, but at least we've taken it to the final game."
In an increasingly controversial title race, Hearts now know what they’re up against
Wednesday 13 May 2026 23:20 , Jamie BraidwoodThe full-time whistle blew at Tynecastle but the celebrations were muted, and eyes remained elsewhere. On a delirious, dizzying evening where Hearts felt their grip on a first title since 1960 tighten, this became the night where the league was pulled further from their reach.
In some places in the Gorgie Road End, the same message that has accompanied this extraordinary season remained: “One more to go, believe!” But their defiance no longer felt as emphatic. On the pitch, players gathered around phones. In the stands, supporters huddled together and waited for the news. Together, they watched as Celtic scored a late, controversial penalty to beat Motherwell and take the title race down to a final-day showdown at Parkhead.
In an increasingly controversial title race, Hearts now know what they’re up against
O'Neill praises Iheanacho
Wednesday 13 May 2026 23:14 , Mike JonesMore from the Celtic boss who was quick to praise the mentality of Kelechi Iheanacho as he scored the spot kick.
"Iheanacho has been terrific for us with the little cameo roles that he's done,” he said.
"He's had a really frustrating time this season with hamstring problems, but he has come up big for us in these weeks, absolutely big, and he was the one taking the penalty.
"I was delighted that he was the one who was taking it.
Martin O'Neill on penalty decision
Wednesday 13 May 2026 23:09 , Mike JonesThe Celtic manager, Martin O’Neill, has backed the VAR decision to award his team a late penalty seemingly going against the views of every other football professional talking about the controversy.
O’Neill toll BBC Scotland: "Well, I have seen it back very, very briefly, it's a handball, it looks as if it's also an elbow to the side of the head as well.
"VAR have asked the referee to come over and have a look at it, and he's [had] no hesitation in giving the penalty."
Jens Berthel Askou on 'unreal moment' penalty was given
Wednesday 13 May 2026 23:05 , Mike JonesMotherwell manager Jens Berthel Askou has as enraged over the penalty decision as Derek McInnes.
He said: "I thought it was very unreal moment. I can't see any way in any world where that could be a penalty.
"I can't see a connection with the arm, but if there is it's because he connects with [Auston] Trusty and he pushes his arm up.
"It's a shame that a good game, with good tempo and intensity gets decided in a situation like that."
Lineker has his say on penalty controversy
Wednesday 13 May 2026 23:00 , Mike JonesGary Lineker has even chipped in with his thoughts on the penalty decision being awarded in Celtic’s favour.
Over on X he wrote: “This might be the worst VAR decision I’ve seen (and there’s a lot of competition).
“Extraordinary given the significance.”
Celtic deserve to take title fight to final day
Wednesday 13 May 2026 22:56 , Mike JonesCeltic captain Callum McGregor spoke to Sky Sports after his team’s late victory.
He said: "That’s huge, a special character had to take the penalty in that pressure.
"The team were, again, working so hard, and you just think it's going to go away from you, and you just get your mind ready, don’t lose the game and let’s go have the shootout at the weekend and see what happens.
"But with this team, how many goals have we scored in the last minute?
"Sometimes you need things to drop for you if you’re going to win titles, especially with how far we’ve come from since late December to still be in it, now with it all in your own hands.
"We deserve to take it to the last day."
Reaction from Iheanacho
Wednesday 13 May 2026 22:51 , Mike JonesRegardless of how dubious the penalty decision was it still needed to be scored and up stepped Kelechi Iheanacho.
He told Sky Sports: "To be fair, I don't have words, I don't know how, but we've done it.
"As you can see, the fans are still shouting, and we're happy, and we have one more to go.
"We need to get back now and focus on that. I just kept cool, and it's scary, but thankfully we got the victory, so we're happy."
It clearly hits his head
Wednesday 13 May 2026 22:47 , Mike JonesFormer Rangers striker Kris Boyd gave his opinion on Sky Sports saying:
“It clearly hits his head. If it hits your hand it just drops down at your feet.
“The non-red card for Alistair Johnston against Rangers and now that tonight. Another dubious call that goes in Celtic's favour.
“Questions will be asked.”
McInnes fumes over VAR penalty decision
Wednesday 13 May 2026 22:42 , Mike JonesThe Hearts manager has seen the replay of the penalty awarded to Celtic in stoppage time and told Sky Sports: “When you hear Celtic got a 96th minute penalty and it’s going to VAR, and they were checking, you assume what’s happened, they get the penalty.
“Having seen it again, it’s disgusting, it is, I don’t think it’s a penalty. But we’re up against it, we’re up against everybody. We’ll be ready for Saturday. I don’t think it’s a penalty, there were two more shouts for penalties in our game against Motherwell.
“I’ve seen it, it’s so poor that they’ve been given that penalty, and it looks like they’ve been given it. They’ve been very fortunate. We have to realise that we’re up against everything on Saturday.”
Celtic's controversial penalty
Wednesday 13 May 2026 22:23 , Mike JonesCeltic’s match winning penalty was awarded late in stoppage time after a VAR check.
It was awarded for an apparant handball by Sam Nicholson though the ball clearly hits his head.
It may have clipped his hand on the way but at best it’s a soft penalty decision and certainly not clear and obvious.
That call could have huge ramifications on where the title ends up.
What do Celtic need on the final day?
Wednesday 13 May 2026 22:19 , Jamie BraidwoodIt’s simple for Celtic: they must beat Hearts on Saturday.
Their last-minute winner on Wednesday means they no longer have to win by six goals. A win, no matter the score, will do the job.
How can Hearts win the league on Saturday?
Wednesday 13 May 2026 22:15 , Jamie BraidwoodAfter a thrilling title race full of twists and turns, it all comes down to Saturday lunchtime.
If Hearts win, they win the title. If Hearts draw, they win the title. But if they lose, it will now be Celtic’s championship.
Scottish Premiership standings and fixtures
Wednesday 13 May 2026 22:11 , Mike Jones1) Hearts | Played: 37, Points: 80, GD+ 35
2) Celtic | Played: 37, Points: 79, GD+ 30
Remaining fixture
Saturday 16 May - Celtic vs Hearts (12:30pm BST)
Strange feeling at Tynecastle
Wednesday 13 May 2026 22:03 , Mike JonesIt’s a strange and almost deflated feeling at Tynecastle despite Hearts having won 3-0.
Celtic’s late win means that the title will be decided on Saturday at Celtic Park.
Hearts just need to avoid defeat there to win the league.
The players have stuck around and are clapping the fans but there are plenty of sad faces around the stadium.
A mixture of emotions at Tynecastle
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:58 , Jamie Braidwood, at TynecastleThe Hearts players were crowding around phones on the pitch watching the late Celtic penalty. Unbelievable. It almost feels as if Hearts have lost. The late Celtic winner has punctured the atmosphere after Hearts were ready for a party. Extraordinary.
Twist at Fir Park!
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:55 , Mike JonesCeltic have been awarded a penalty kick in the 97th minute at Fir Park after a VAR review.
The Hearts fans are all looking at their phones and waiting for updates on this penalty.
Kelechi Iheanacho places the ball on the spot. He guides it into the bottom corner.
Celtic lead 3-2 over Motherwell and are back to within one point of Hearts.
FULL TIME! Hearts 3-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:54 , Jamie Braidwood, at TynecastleEveryone at Tynecastle is waiting to see what happens at Celtic. This is remarkable. The Hearts players are standing around waiting to see what happens...
Full-time! Hearts 3-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:53 , Mike JonesThere goes the whistle to end the match.
Hearts have done what they needed to do and in the process improved their goal difference over Celtic as well.
That could prove crucial ahead of the title decider between the two teams on Saturday.
Hearts will head into it as the Scottish Premiership leaders.
Hearts 3-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:51 , Mike Jones90 mins: Three minutes of added time to play at Tynecastle Park.
Time for another Hearts goal?
GOAL! Hearts 3-0 Falkirk (Blair Spittal, 86')
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:46 , Mike JonesThat’ll help!
A give and go plays Blair Spittal into the right side of the penalty area.
He takes a touch to set himself and slots the effort beautifully into the far bottom corner.
GOAL! Hearts 3-0 Falkirk (SPITTAL)
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:45 , Jamie BraidwoodA HUGE GOAL! Blair Spittal comes up with another and Hearts run back to their half to restart, they are chasing goal difference!
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:44 , Mike Jones85 mins: Hearts are pushing for more goals despite already being five better off than Celtic in the table.
Spittal whips in a corner bu Hogarth is there to push the ball away.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:43 , Mike Jones83 mins: The equaliser at Fir Park was scored by Liam Gordon who came through the Hearts youth system as well.
It certainly feels as though the title race has swung firmly in Hearts’ favour right now.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:42 , Mike Jones82 mins: Oh my!
Tynecastle Park has just erupted in cheers as news filters through that Motherwell have equalised against Celtic.
It’s 2-2 at Fir Park and that puts Hearts firmly in the driving seat to win the title now.
The fans are in full voice now and are starting to celebrate again.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:42 , Jamie BraidwoodEvents at Tynecastle had fallen into a bit of a limbo. Not anymore! Motherwell are level!
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:38 , Mike Jones78 mins: This match, and the one at Fir Park between Celtic and Motherwell, have gone a bit flat.
It’s almost cruise control until the 90 minutes runs out and the title decider can take place on Saturday.
Hearts will hope to add more goals to their tally before the end of the game though.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:32 , Mike Jones73 mins: Kingsley has been good value since his introduction at the break.
Hearts have grown in confidence and control throughout the game and even cut short a Falkirk counter attack before it can really begin to develop.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:29 , Mike Jones69 mins: Hearts are now peppering the Falkirk box with crosses, mainly from the left, but the visitors have so far been up to the task of repelling them.
The latest onslaught comes through a couple of Kingsley’s long throws but again the visitors deal with them without issue.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:25 , Mike Jones66 mins: Kingsley and Allan come together as the Hearts man shields the ball. He wins a free kick and takes it himself as the hosts send players into the box.
The cross is cleared out as far as Spittal who shoots from range and wins a corner.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:23 , Mike Jones63 mins: Hearts don’t look in any danger. If anything they look likely to add more goals.
Kingsley fires in a cross after an overlapping run on the left.
It’s sent into the dangerzone but Hogarth gets there first to slap it away.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:19 , Mike Jones60 mins: A shocking backpass sends the ball out for a Falkirk corner but a foul in the box ends any threat from the visitors.
The atmosphere has been zapped out of the stadium after that deflating news about Celtic taking the lead.
Shankland tries to bring it back with a brilliant header that just flies wide of the near post.
The captain is getting himself into dangerous positions.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:15 , Mike Jones57 mins: Oh no.
Celtic have gone ahead at Fir Park and there are now some sulky looking faces on the Hearts fans now.
It was always going to be a long shot for Hearts to win the title tonight and the most important matter was for the team to make sure they win.
It’s an easier job now that they’re two goals up.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:13 , Mike Jones54 mins: Close! Devlin crosses from the right and drops the ball at the feet of Shankland.
He sidefoots an effort towards the back post but Hogarth leaps over and palms the effort past the woodwork.
The offside flag then goes up against the Hearts captain.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:11 , Mike Jones51 mins: Hearts with a free kick and send it out to Kzyiridis once again. He dances inside this time and wins a free kick after being clattered by Calvin Miller.
Hearts decide to play it quickly but nothing threatening materialises from it.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:09 , Mike Jones48 mins: Crossbar!
A beautiful switch of play from Hearts sees the ball drop to Kyziridis in space on the right wing.
He drives up to the box and almost looks to chip the goalkeeper or send a cross to the back post. It’s a good effort either way and the ball drops onto the woodwork!
Second half! Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 21:04 , Mike JonesAs Hearts get the ball rolling for the second half, Stephen Kingsley has been brought on in place of Harry Milne.
The hosts send the ball over to the left wing but it sails out of play for a throw in.
Derek McInnes speaking before kick off: "I'm looking forward to the game. Obviously it's eagerly anticipated as all the home games have been.
"I remember the first home game of the season here against Aberdeen and we wanted to be something, and to get the crowd involved. We were relentless that night.
"Now it’s the last home game of the season and we just ask the players for more of the same. Same approach, same commitment, same desire, get the crowd into it and hopefully get the same outcome as that game.
"The atmosphere is going to be special and we need to thrive on that."
HALF TIME! Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:58 , Jamie Braidwood, at TynecastleHearts are in complete control at Tynecastle. Now, if Motherwell and Celtic finishes as a draw, Hearts would have the opportunity to increase their goal difference in the second half against Falkirk, which could be huge by Saturday. With a three-point lead and superior goal difference, Celtic would need a huge win over Hearts on the final day.
HT Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:57 , Mike JonesHearts dominated the first half after a nervous start.
They had 69% possession and created six shots with three of those chances on target.
Two of those three efforts ended up in the back of the net and Derek McInnes’ men can’t do much more than they have already.
HT Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:53 , Mike Jones
Half-time! Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:48 , Mike JonesThe whistle goes and the Hearts players are applauded as they head down the tunnel.
It was a shaky start from the league leaders but they got their act together and two goals scored in the opening 45 minutes mean they have a strong chance to win a historic league title this evening.
All to play for in the second half.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:47 , Mike Jones45 mins: Just the one minute of added time to play at Tynecastle.
Braga fends off Donaldson before getting tackled over on the left wing.
Hearts have control but Celtic’s equaliser means they currently won’t win the title tonight.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:44 , Jamie BraidwoodSpeaking of... news of Daizen Maeda’s goal at Fir Park is not going to spread round Tynecastle as quickly.
Hearts 2-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:39 , Mike Jones39 mins: The Hearts fans are in tears already. Their side have control in this clash against Falkirk but they need Motherwell to remain ahead against Celtic.
The Hoops are struggling over at Fir Park. They need to find a goal to keep the title race alive.
GOAL! Hearts 2-0 Falkirk (Cameron Devlin, 34')
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:36 , Mike JonesTwo!
Braga plays a one-two to get the ball into the box but a last-ditch tackle pokes it away from him.
Cameron Devlin is the first to react and sprints to the ball before slotting it towards goal.
A deflection takes it past the goalkeeper and Hearts have a firm grip on this game, and possibly the title, right now!
GOAL! Hearts 2-0 Falkirk (DEVLIN)
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:35 , Jamie BraidwoodAnd now it is 2-0, to Hearts! Cammy Devlin and Frankie Kent came into the team tonight, both have scored! Remarkable.
“We shall not be moved” rings around Tynecastle. It’s been a brilliant response from Hearts to their slow start, and they are doing their job!
Hearts 1-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:34 , Mike Jones31 mins: Oh!
It’s almost 2-0 to Hearts as the ball is swung in from the right and drops to Harry Milne.
He takes a touch then goes for power before blazing the effort just over the crossbar!
At Fir Park it remains 1-0 to Motherwell.
Hearts 1-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:33 , Jamie BraidwoodAnother roar is spreading around Tynecastle as Hearts prepare to take a corner... is it 2-0 to Motherwell?!
Supporters are looking around, checking their phones.... One fan raises two fingers, but I think it’s still only 1-0!
What drama already.
GOAL! Hearts 1-0 Falkirk (Frankie Kent, 29')
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:31 , Mike JonesHuge! A massive goal for Hearts.
Kyziridis swings in a corner kick and lands the ball on the head of Frankie Kent who bullets his header into the back of the net.
Hearts are leading, Celtic are losing, the title is on the line!
GOAL! Hearts 1-0 Falkirk (KENT 29')
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:30 , Jamie Braidwood, at TynecastleWOOW! Tynecastle erupts! Red smoke billows from the far corner of the ground and the unthinkable is happening! What a header from Frankie Kent.
Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:28 , Mike Jones28 mins: Close! Alexandros Kyziridis feeds the ball to Shankland in a slick move between the two Hearts attackers.
Shankland shoots from just inside the penalty area on the right and his effort takes a deflection but lands safely in the hands of Hogarth who keeps it out.
Hearts have overcome their early nerves it seems.
Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:28 , Jamie Braidwood, at TynecastleThat was Hearts’ best moment as Shankland’s low shot was saved. This is an extraordinary situation: with Celtic behind, a Hearts goal would have them on course for the title. They are growing into the game, but there is now that extra tension in the air...
Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:26 , Mike Jones25 mins: Hearts win a free kick that gets whipped into the box from the right wing.
Findlay is over by the far post and leaps towards the ball but it skims over the top of his head and bounces through for a Falkirk throw in.
Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:23 , Mike Jones22 mins: From a throw in Hearts work the ball nicely on the left to feed Braga into space.
He curls in a cross that Hogarth attempts to catch under pressure from Lawrence Shankland.
The goalkeeper fumbles the ball but it’s not too much of an issue and the danger is dealt with.
Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:21 , Mike Jones20 mins: Calvin Miller gets into another decent position over on the left and weaves towards Michael Steinwender who drops back into his own box.
Miller manages to get the cross in but Hearts defend it well enough.
Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:18 , Mike Jones17 mins: Connor Allan makes a solid run down the right and wins a free kick having been clattered by Blair Spittal who also collects a yellow card.
In the other crucial match of the evening Motherwell have taken the lead against Celtic.
That means if Hearts win and Celtic lose, Hearts will be crowned champions. The Hearts fans have cranked up the volume at Tynecastle to encourage their team on!
Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:18 , Jamie Braidwood, at Tynecastle15 mins: Hearts have been second best so far and rather sluggish, the crowd increasingly anxious... but then comes a barreling, thunderous roar! Have Motherwell scored....?
Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:15 , Mike Jones14 mins: This is better from Hearts. They work the ball slickly into the box with Braga in control.
He’s forced wide but manages to get a pass back across to Beni Baningime.
Baningime is encouraged to shoot but decides on a short pass to try and work a better position for Hearts but the attack fades away before threatening the goalkeeper.
Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:13 , Mike Jones11 mins: Hearts are trying to get themselves up the pitch but Falkirk are pressing aggressively and are seeing some joy in cutting out passes through midfield.
Findlay fires a long ball down the left wing towards Claudio Braga but he loses possession under pressure.
Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:09 , Mike Jones8 mins: Hearts need to buck up.
Falkirk have started this match by far the better team. They’ve been positive and aggressive with the home side slightly timid.
A bit of possession is needed for McInnes’ men.
Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:07 , Jamie Braidwood4 mins: McInnes was shaking his head and had a face like thunder even before the disallowed goal. Hearts had been slow to the second balls and Falkirk had started much sharper. A wake-up call for Hearts and their patched up defence.
Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:06 , Mike Jones4 mins: Goal... wait no.
Calvin Miller makes a darting run down the inside left channel and receives the ball as it gets chipped over the top.
Miller collects the ball and drives into the box before firing a superb low effort into the far bottom corner.
The offside flag goes up from the linesman and a quick VAR quick confirms the onfield decision despite it being a close call.
Reprieve for Hearts.
Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:04 , Mike Jones3 mins: Ben Broggio gets in behind the Hearts defence after a slip the central defender.
Broggio looks for the cutback pass but a backtracking Cameron Devlin slides in to make the block and he deflects the ball behind for a corner.
Falkirk maintain the early pressure they’ve put on Hearts. Alexander Schwolow makes a couple of slight errors in goal before Stuart Findley clears his lines.
Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:02 , Jamie BraidwoodTynecastle is rocking after the Heart’s Song. Bouncing. Now for the players to try and keep and their heads and what could be the most special of evenings...
Kick off! Hearts 0-0 Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 20:01 , Mike JonesFalkirk get the ball rolling and work it over to the left wing where it’s nudged out of play for a throw in to the visitors.
This clash is underway!
Hearts vs Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 19:56 , Mike JonesThe players make their way out at Tynecastle ahead of one of the biggest matches of the season.
Hearts could win the title tonight but other results will need to go their way.
To keep things in their own hands they need to beat Falkirk and bring some confidence into the final match of the season against Celtic.
Kick off is up next...
'Voice of Hearts' Colin Chisholm leads the Heart's song
Wednesday 13 May 2026 19:55 , Jamie BraidwoodColin Chisholm, one of the original voices of the Heart’s song, was first invited from his season-ticket seat to perform on the Tynecastle pitch before the game against Aberdeen on February 28. It proved to be such a hit that Chisholm has performed at every Hearts game since. Prepare for another rousing rendition from the 73-year-old.
Can Shankland match his own record?
Wednesday 13 May 2026 19:52 , Mike JonesLawrence Shankland has scored in both of Heart of Midlothian’s last two home league games.
The last Hearts player to score in three successive home Scottish Premiership appearances was Shankland himself in May 2024.
Hearts have 'unshakeable belief' in winning title - Derek McInnes
Wednesday 13 May 2026 19:47 , Jamie BraidwoodDerek McInnes refused to look beyond tonight’s game against Falkirk and said there was no talk of “distractions” with Hearts able to win the title tonight if Celtic lose to Motherwell.
“I have believed for a while that we’ve got a team capable of winning the league, just that unshakeable belief in what we’re doing,” McInnes said.
“We have been trying to hold off a couple of heavyweights for a long time now. We’ve managed to see off Rangers and we’ve got to try and see off Celtic over the next two games.
“I think the facts show we’re coping brilliantly. We’ve already broken a club record in terms of points tally and we’ve got a Champions League qualifier already secured, but obviously we want to try and go one better now and win the league.”
Ending on a high?
Wednesday 13 May 2026 19:42 , Mike JonesAfter beating St. Johnstone 2-1 last season, Hearts could win their final home game in back-to-back top-flight campaigns for the first time since 2005-06/2006-07.
History going against Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 19:37 , Mike JonesFalkirk have only scored in one of their last seven top-flight matches against Hearts (two draws, five defeats).
They netted twice but still lost in February 2010 (3-2).
Hearts vs Falkirk
Wednesday 13 May 2026 19:32 , Mike JonesHearts have won each of their last five top-flight matches against Falkirk, including all three this season without conceding.
This game is a big one though and Hearts know a victory puts them on the brink of a historic title win.
Is Hearts v Falkirk on TV? How to watch with Scottish Premiership on the line
Wednesday 13 May 2026 19:27 , Jamie BraidwoodHearts v Falkirk will be shown live on Sky Sports Football, not Sky Sports Main Event, with coverage starting from 7pm BST. Kick-off is 8pm. The other game in the title race, Motherwell v Celtic, will be shown live on Sky Sports +, an additional channel that can be accessed via the red button, Now TV, or the Sky app.
Is Hearts v Falkirk on TV? Channel, time and how to watch Scottish Premiership
'The eyes of the world are watching'
Wednesday 13 May 2026 19:25 , Jamie BraidwoodThe Hearts stadium announcer takes the opportunity, while he can, to remind supporters that under “no circumstances” should fans enter the pitch at any point this evening. Many situations are at play, of course, including Hearts winning the league tonight...
What do Hearts need to win the league?
Wednesday 13 May 2026 19:10 , Jamie BraidwoodAfter a thrilling title race full of twists or turns, it could all come down to tonight.
If Hearts beat Falkirk at home and Celtic lose away to Motherwell, Hearts will be champions with one game to spare.
Both games kick-off at the same time (8pm BST), so any goals at Tynecastle or Fir Park will filter through to the other team.
Celtic can guarantee the title goes down to the final day as long as they avoid defeat at Motherwell.
What do Hearts need to win the league? Scottish Premiership title permutations
Torrential downpour can't dampen excitement
Wednesday 13 May 2026 18:59 , Jamie Braidwood, at TynecastleThe pre-match plans of many Hearts supporters have been spoiled by a torrential downpour in Edinburgh, leaving many ducking into the crowded pubs on Gorgie Road for cover. Not that many needed an excuse.
Falkirk team to face Hearts
Wednesday 13 May 2026 18:58 , Mike JonesFalkirk XI: Hogarth, Henderson, Donaldson, Allan, Hart, Spencer, Tait, Miller, Yeats, Broggio, Wilson.
Substitutes: Sneddon, Graham, MacIver, Cartwright, Oliver, Ross, Parkinson, Brown, Bennett.
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
