Kevin Nisbet penalty seals dramatic late Aberdeen win against Hearts
Captain Kevin Nisbet scored a stoppage-time penalty to secure Aberdeen a dramatic comeback victory over 10-man Hearts at Pittodrie.
The visitors had looked comfortable for long spells after taking a deserved lead through a close-range strike from Oisin McEntee.
Hearts appeared on course to establish strong domestic momentum until a chaotic final few minutes turned the match completely on its head.
In the 90th minute, a dangerous free-kick delivery from Stuart Armstrong caused sheer panic inside the penalty area.
Late penalty drama sinks visitors
Dan Happe headed the ball back across the face of goal before Lewis Mayo forced it over the line to grab a last-gasp equaliser.
Things immediately went from bad to worse for the away side as Stuart Findlay brought down the charging Toyosi Olusanya inside the box.
The defender was shown a straight red card for the foul, presenting the home side with a golden opportunity to snatch all three points.
Nisbet stepped up to confidently convert the resulting spot-kick, punishing the Edinburgh outfit for their sudden lack of defensive discipline.
Vrancken demands European response
The late collapse leaves Hearts reeling following their recent heavy aggregate defeat to Sturm Graz in Champions League qualifying.
Head coach Wouter Vrancken expressed deep frustration at his team’s inability to manage the game from a winning position.
“We give it away in five minutes,” was the Belgian manager’s blunt post-match response.
“We had to be smarter. We were going in attack with too many people there instead of keeping control and managing the counter, especially when you are 1-0 ahead.”
The manager must now rally his squad for a demanding Europa League qualifying tie against Portuguese giants Benfica on Thursday evening.
Meanwhile, Aberdeen boss Stephen Robinson praised the fighting spirit shown by his players to extend their impressive winning streak.
The dramatic triumph builds upon a flawless League Cup group stage campaign for the buoyant Dons.