Hanlonhappytorevisitspecialstrike

PAUL HANLON will never tire of fans constantly reminding him about his last-gasp derby saver that sparked off Hibs’ run to Scottish Cup glory.

The defender netted the equaliser in the 2-2 fifthround draw at Tynecastle in 2016. Hibs won the replay then went on to record a first Scottish Cup win in 114 years.

Hanlon said: “That was a special goal, it got us the replay. I still get fans talking about it now and obviously the fact we went on and won the Cup makes it even better.

“Being a Hibs fan as well it’s one I remember. It’s not until you look back at that run you realise how important it was to keep us in the Cup.

“I just remember sliding in with my right foot – it probably looked more like a slide tackle than a volley or anything like that.

“It managed to go through the bodies and then the stand erupted. As a boy you’re involved in that as a fan and it’s amazing – but to make it happen on the pitch was an unbelievable feeling.

“When something like that happens it feels more like a win than a draw. So it maybe gave us the upper hand going into the replay.

“How often have I watched it? Too many times to remember! How do I top it? By scoring the winner in an Edinburgh derby!

“This is my 23rd Edinburgh derby and it’s just as exciting as my first. We’re full of confidence and ready to go.”