In a match that ebbed and flowed and was impossible to predict, the never-say-die attitude from the Edinburgh side saw them level a 2-0 deficit and then come back again in extra-time to force penalty kicks.
It wasn’t to be in the end with a penalty shoot-out defeat but Robbie Neilson’s side, and squad, put in a heroic effort in their bid to bring the cup back to Tynecastle.
Here’s how the team rated from a top performance by goalkeeper Craig Gordon through to the substitutes who came on and helped in an energy sapping 120 minutes and shoot-out against the reigning league and domestic cup champions.
Player ratings scale - 10: One of the best performances you have seen. 9: Outstanding. 8: Very good. 7: Good. 6: Average. 5: Poor, 4: Very poor. 3: A terrible day at the office. 2: Abysmal. 1: One of the worst performances you've seen.
9. Steven Naismith - 8
A thorn in Celtic's side. Embroiled in the battle with Brown off the ball, a threat in attack on it, the Jambos benefitted from his experience at this level. Photo: Rob Casey - SNS Group
10. Jamie Walker - 6
Not particularly influential and booking for shirt-pulling blunted that even further before substitution. Replacement Ginnelly eclipsed the attacker. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group
11. Liam Boyce - 7
Excellent placed header gave Hearts hope and led the line well for Robbie Neilson's side. Would've fancied him to have scored again as Celtic tired as game went on but replacement Wighton caused problems. Photo: Bill Murray - SNS Group / SFA
12. Robbie Neilson - 8
Manager caught everyone out including Aidy White and half-time pep talk worked wonders to inspire team to great second half and contribute to one of the cup finals of the ages. Substitutions at the right time and can't be blamed for penalty defeat. Photo: Ian MacNicol