Hibs were on top for long spells: SNS

Hibs were also threatening and Scotland defender Steven Pressley had to be on top of his game to thwart a number of promising attacks.

The tackling was typically robust and the zippy passing of the first 15 minutes gave way to a series of silly fouls and speculative long balls.

However, the frantic nature of play and the noisy support of both teams made for enthralling viewing.

With 36 minutes gone, the home fans were celebrating when Paatelainen knocked in the opening goal.

A deep corner from Jarko Wiss was headed back towards goal by Ian Murray and the big Finn prodded the ball home from close range.

A sharp shot on the turn from Kirk almost brought Hearts back on level terms two minutes before half time but Colgan made a fine diving save to push the ball away.

Hibs went looking for a second goal at the start of the second half and the powerful forward running of Garry O'Connor was causing Hearts all manner of problems.

Time and again the muscular youngster terrorised his markers but was denied by some desperate tackling and a reluctance to use his left foot.

Hearts staged an incredible comeback: SNS

Paatelainen went close to grabbing a second goal when his shot from the edge of the penalty area flashed over the bar.

Hibs had the lion's share of possession and had Hearts pinned back for long spells but, with just one goal in it, the visitors always had a way back.

And so it proved just four minutes from time when McKenna, pushed up front from defence angled home a wonderful header.

Hibs substitute Tam McManus went close with a fierce free kick but keeper Roddy McKenzie did well to beat it away.

Just seconds from the final whistle Hearts completed an amazing comeback when a good passing move saw Stamp thump home the winning goal from 15 yards.

Stamp's wild celebrations saw him sent off for a second bookable offence.