Scottish Cup replays could become a thing of the past in a bid to avoid fixture congestion according to Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell.
Replays are currently required up until the semi-finals of the Scottish Cup in the event of games ending in a draw.
That could be scrapped though, with matches going straight to extra-time and penalties to decide original ties on the day.
Hearts required a quarter-final replay against Partick Thistle on their way to this season’s final after a 1-1 draw at Firhill.
Craig Levein’s side won a nervy replay 2-1 after going behind early.
They required replays against both St Mirren and St Johnstone during their successful 2012 cup campaign.
Hibs needed a replay, against Hearts, on their way to 2016’s historic Scottish Cup win. They came back from 2-0 down at Tynecastle to draw 2-2 before winning the fifth round replay at Easter Road 1-0.
They rivals met again a year later, with Hibs progressing again thanks to a 3-1 replay victory after a goalless draw the first time round.
"We want to have a Scottish Cup review,” said Maxwell.
"There's a few things we want to look at and replays is one of them.
"I was at the Highland League meeting last year and they wanted to go to penalties after 90 minutes rather than having extra time and replays.
“I know from my playing days that keeping potential replay dates free is frustrating when you could be playing league fixtures.
"Scheduling is difficult with the winter break and it's something we will look at, because I'm sure the clubs will have a few ideas.
"It's also about supporters and we can ask them their view through the congress."
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