Broken Hearts: Socceroo left in tears as Scottish title bid ends in ‘shameful scenes’
Heart of Midlothian's Scottish Premiership title bid ended in a 3-1 defeat to Celtic on the final day of the 2025-26 season, dashing hopes of breaking the Old Firm's decades-long dominance. The match concluded with a pitch invasion and reports of abuse toward players and staff, overshadowing the sporting contest. Australian Socceroo Cammy Devlin was visibly emotional as the dream collapsed in what was described as 'shameful scenes'.
- ▪Heart of Midlothian had the chance to win their first league title in 66 years by avoiding defeat against Celtic on the final matchday.
- ▪The club's rise was fueled by investment and strategic recruitment led by gambling tycoon Tony Bloom, who also transformed Brighton & Hove Albion.
- ▪Celtic overturned the challenge with a 3-1 victory, sparking a pitch invasion where Hearts players and staff were reportedly abused.
- ▪Only 750 away fans were permitted at Celtic Park, and despite an early lead through captain Lawrence Shankland, Hearts could not hold on.
- ▪The defeat reinforced the Old Firm's dominance, as no Scottish club outside Celtic or Rangers has won the league since 1984-85.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Sydney Morning Herald.