Hearts v Hibs: Why part one of Edinburgh derby double-bill is so significant

The importance and the pressure of derby matches does not need to be cranked up but as Hearts host Hibs at Tynecastle today there is a sense of real significance.

More than just three points, more than the bragging rights, the match and the one that follows next weekend will define Hearts and Hibs’ season, as well as having a major say in how next term rolls out in terms of European football and access to the group stages.

Against that backdrop, there is a greater sheen to next week’s Scottish Cup semi-final. A win at Hampden would guarantee Hearts a place in the Conference League groups at the very least, whilst a victory for the Leithers would keep that particular dream alive for them, too, and that is not forgetting the little matter of a cup final spot for the team that triumphs.

But, it is no surprise that both are sticking with the one-game-at-a-time mantra. And what a game.

So far the Edinburgh foes have battled hard but have just two 0-0 draws to show for those endeavours and with the possibility that this could be the last Premiership meeting between the sides this season, neither wants to pass up the opportunity to tip the balance in their favour.

But that one upmanship could stretch beyond the final scoreline.

While various permutations could see Hearts wrap up third place, which has seemed their fate for so long now, the truth is this is a match where Hibs’ need for a win outstrips Hearts’, with that outcome the only one that leaves their top-six fate in their own hands.

Squished up in a traffic jam of seven clubs all seeking a place in the top half of the table when the league splits this weekend, it would be a disaster. Survive among the elite and although the gulf would still be sizeable, they would