The Edinburgh derby of Sunday October 22, 2000 was a remarkable affair and is still talked about – at least by those of a green-and-white persuasion!
The city rivals had drawn 0-0 at Tynecastle at the end of July on the opening day of the third SPL season – and would go on to draw twice more in 2000/01.
Martin O’Neill’s unbeaten Celtic side were top of the table in October 2000 but Hibs were also enjoying a fine campaign under Alex McLeish. They had beaten Rangers 1-0 at Easter Road the week before the derby match thanks to a David Zitelli goal and were sitting in second place with a 100% home record. They had lost just once in 11 matches – to Celtic at Parkhead.
Didier Agathe had joined the Hoops the previous month after an outstanding start to the season but Hibs were strong and still had the likes of Franck Sauzee and Russell Latapy in their ranks.
Hearts, meanwhile, arrived at Easter Road in fifth place in the SPL and having thumped Dundee United 4-0 at Tannadice in their previous outing, helped by an Andy Kirk double. Jim Jefferies’ team had plenty talent in their squad, including goalkeeper Antti Niemi and midfielder Colin Cameron.
The stage was set for quite an afternoon in the capital…
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