Goal fest on 'reinvigorating' Scottish Cup weekend
Monday, April 15, 2013
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Fourteen goals were scored in 24 hours at Hampden Park as Hibernian FC and Celtic FC came through epic Scottish Cup semi-finals on a "memorable weekend" in Glasgow.
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Scottish Football Association (SFA) president Campbell Ogilvie has praised all four sides after two epic cup semi-finals at the weekend "reinvigorated" the game north of the border.
A total of 14 goals were scored, with both ties requiring extra time before Celtic FC and Hibernian FC emerged 4-3 winners to book their places in the Scottish Cup final at Hampden Park on 26 May.
Hibernian trailed second-tier Falkirk FC 3-0 at the break in Saturday's Hampden semi, before Pat Fenlon's side staged a remarkable second-half comeback to force an additional 30 minutes. Striker Leigh Griffiths eventually sealed the Edinburgh club's second consecutive final appearance with a sensational winner.
Twenty-four hours later it was Celtic and Dundee United FC's turn to add to the drama and they did not disappoint, serving up another seven-goal thriller at the national stadium in Glasgow. The lead changed hands three times, with Kris Commons and Jon Daly scoring doubles before former Hibs striker Anthony Stokes came off the bench to head the clincher for Celtic in the 14th minute of overtime.
The Hoops now have the opportunity to secure their first league and cup double since 2007, while Hibs are looking to end a 111-year wait for the Scottish Cup since last lifting the trophy in 1902. "I would like to express our gratitude to the clubs, players and supporters of all four semi-finalists for contributing to a memorable weekend of cup football," said Ogilvie.
"Both matches provided unprecedented levels of excitement and entertainment, generating international coverage of Scottish football for the right reasons. It was hugely encouraging seeing so many young players thrive on this stage, and equally pleasing to watch all four teams commit to an entertaining and attacking style of football.
"I would like to congratulate Hibernian and Celtic for reaching what is sure to be an enthralling Scottish Cup final, but I would also like to reserve special praise for Falkirk and Dundee United for their part in a hugely enjoyable and reinvigorating weekend of football."
