Hibernian hopes ended by Scotland

By Alex O'Henley

Scottish Premier League strugglers Dundee United FC upset the form book as they came from a goal down to earn a place in the Scottish Cup final with a 2-1 win against Hibernian FC.

Riordan penalty
Gordon Chisholm's side, currently lying at the foot of the league table, could be in line for some consolation after defeating the team lying nine places above them. But they had to come from behind after Derek Riordan had given the Edinburgh outfit the lead from the penalty spot just before the hour after Barry Robson had fouled Dean Shiels.

Scotland strike
The Dundee United midfield player made amends on 73 minutes, supplying the cross for Jim McIntyre's equaliser. Substitute Jason Scotland made it 2-1 three minutes later but McIntyre was later booked, his second yellow card of the competition meaning he will be absent for the final at Hampden Park in May.

Celtic triumph
Their opponents will be Celtic FC after the holders edged past the side that dealt them a loss in the league last weekend, Heart of Midlothian FC. English striker Chris Sutton returned to the starting lineup and made an immediate impact, heading Stilian Petrov's cross into the net on three minutes.

Bellamy goal
Martin O'Neill's side enjoyed a similar start to the second period when Craig Bellamy's deflected shot slipped through the arms of Craig Gordon on 49 minutes. Lithuanian midfield player Deividas Cesnauskis did give Hearts hope with a tidy chip on the hour but Celtic held on to reach their fourth final in five years.

Aberdeen anguish
With Hibernian on cup duty, Aberdeen FC had an opportunity to claim third place in the league table but failed to capitalise, losing 3-1 against Motherwell FC. Kevin McBride, Jim Hamilton and Scott MacDonald were all on target for the visitors, who remain on course for a top-half finish.

Dundee relief
Inverness Caledonian Thistle FC are seventh after Barry Wilson's solitary first-half strike gave the side a narrow win at Kilmarnock FC, while Dundee FC eased their relegation fears with a 2-1 victory against Dunfermline Athletic FC. Dunfermline remain second bottom, two points above Dundee United.

Falkirk promotion
Meanwhile, Falkirk FC will be playing top-flight football next season after clinching the First Division championship.