Liam Boyce desperate to leave Hibs on the skids as Hearts striker targets another semi final knees up

Liam Boyce was gutted his Hampden knee slide was wasted on an empty national stadium after his winner as Hearts dumped Hibs in the 2020 Scottish Cup semi final.

But as the Edinburgh rivals gear up for a rematch two seasons later the hitman is desperate to ensure Hibs hit the skids again.

And this time he wants to feel the full adrenaline rush of over 20,000 Jambos surging round the ground celebrating sliding into the showpiece final.

Boyce’s 111th minute spot kick was the difference as the Gorgie side beat their arch rivals on a sodden evening in October 2020 to set up a final meeting, which they lost on spot kicks, with Celtic.

Back then the covid crisis padlocks remained on turnstyles around the country meaning a hollow Hampden dampened the celebrations among Robbie Neilson ’s side.

But with the old lady of Mount Florida set to be packed to the rafters for Saturday’s clash Boyce is hellbent on leaving Hibs on their knees .. and the Jambos looking forward to a knees-up.

Recalling the last encounter at Hampden the Northern Irishman said: “I remember I missed a big chance .. but then we got the penalty and I scored. I’d take the same again.

“It was weird at the time.

“You got used to the lack of fans in league games but Hampden is massive and when I scored the penalty I ran to the stands and did a knee slide.. then remembered there was nobody there!

“You are celebrating in front of nobody. But hopefully I get one on Saturday and I can celebrate with everybody.

“When I was younger I used to practice celebrations and try and be funny.

“Now it’s pure emotion, it’s what football is all about. Whatever happens, happens…as long as you don’t get a yellow card!

“You always have to believe as a striker you are going to