Hibs goal hero Jack Iredale feels the derby emotions after 'rollercoaster' career path

Hibernian derby goal hero Jack Iredale admitted it was an emotional post-match celebration for him as the Easter Road crowd came together to sing the club anthem Sunshine on Leith.

Central defender Iredale struck a stunning second-half winner to defeat Hearts 2-1 and send Hibs up to third place in the Scottish Premiership.

The 28-year-old has met with his fair share of adversity on his route to playing a key role in the Edinburgh side’s 15-game unbeaten run.

After being diagnosed with diabetes at 12 years old, Iredale suffered three anterior cruciate ligament injuries in his teens.

Born in Greenock but raised in Australia, he began his career in the lower leagues down under before moving to the UK and spending time at Morton, Queen’s Park, Carlisle, Cambridge United and Bolton Wanderers.

Speaking after his moment of derby glory, Iredale said: “It felt a bit emotional really. I’ve been on a bit of a rollercoaster to get here and I know it’s not the end of the road but [just] to be able to enjoy a moment like that.

“I know a couple of the boys haven’t heard ‘Sunshine of Leith’ in a while and then we get two in the one week.

“It is something you’ll never, ever get used to.

“It is the best song in world football. Being able to share something like that with the fans.

“Even when I had absolutely no link to Hibs you watch the Scottish Cup final, the scenes of Sunshine on Leith at Hampden there.

“We went to [Hearts] on Boxing Day and did it but to have a full stadium at home and do the same thing makes it a special day.”