Anthony Stokes’ dramatic extra-time winner against Dundee United at Hampden booked Celtic’s Scottish Cup final date with Hibernian on May 26.
In a thrilling encounter where both teams swapped the lead, Celtic midfielder Kris Commons and United skipper Jon Daly grabbed doubles with goals from Tannadice winger Gary Mackay-Steven and Victor Wanyama ensuring 30 added minutes.
However, in the 104th minute Stokes, on for Mikael Lustig in the second half, headed in a James Forrest cross to ensure the Hoops will return to the national stadium at the end of the month hoping to complete a domestic double, their Clydesdale Bank Premier League title all but clinched.
Remarkably, Hampden witnessed its second 4-3 semi-final in two days following Hibs’ injury-time win over Irn-Bru First Division Falkirk on Saturday.
It was asking a lot for both sides to live up to that match but that’s exactly what they did.
United boss Jackie McNamara claimed Commons’ second goal might have been chalked off for the use of his arm and thought his side might have had a penalty when Wanyama clashed with Mackay-Steven in the box.
McNamara said: “I thought Gary got his body in the right position and their second goal was a bit dubious it hit Commons on the hand although he maybe didn’t know much about it, but again, there is no point in crying about it.
“I thought the players were exceptional, every one of them. They gave everything they had and caused Celtic problems.”
For in-depth coverage from Hampden, see Monday’s Courier or try our digital edition.