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.
13. SUB - Josh Ginnelly 7
Could've been the hero but spurned three great chances to win the cup for Hearts - two in the final two minutes. Should've been the hero with ET equaliser but it wasn't to be. Gave Celtic plenty of trouble after coming on. Photo: Bill Murray - SNS Group / SFA
14. Craig Wighton - 6
Should've scored after replacing Boyce but blasted over twice. Provided more running at a crucial time than the starting striker and effective outlet aainst a tiring defence, but could have had more. Photo: Bill Murray - SNS Group / SFA
15. Olly Lee - 5
On without much time to affect things but hanging set-piece deliveries caused all sorts of issues for a tired Celtic defence and led to extra-time equaliser. Photo: Mark Scates - SNS Group
16. Peter Haring - 5
Added a solid strength when he came on for extra-time period for Halliday. Unfortunate not to start the game. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group