Celtic's 1986 title drama revisited on its 40th anniversary
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 4, 2026, 4:00 PM
Last updated Jun 4, 2026
On May 3, 1986, Celtic secured the league title in a dramatic final day against St Mirren. They needed to win by at least three goals while hoping Hearts lost to Dundee. Celtic accomplished their task with a 4-0 victory, while Hearts, facing an unexpected challenge, lost 2-0, culminating a remarkable season. Albert Kidd emerged as a pivotal figure for Hearts, scoring two late goals that sealed their fate. This event is commemorated 40 years later, retaining its significant place in Scottish football folklore.
- •Celtic needed a significant win and a Hearts loss to clinch the title.
- •Celtic won 4-0 against St Mirren at Love Street.
- •Hearts lost 2-0 to Dundee after a challenging season.
- •Albert Kidd scored two late goals, changing the title race.
- •The day is celebrated as a historic moment in Scottish football.
- 4:00 PMYahoo Sports — Love Street 1986 at 40: Oral History of Celtic’s Greatest Title-Day Drama
"Forty years on from 3 May 1986, we revisit the day that sent the league title to Celtic Park – an afternoon of transistor radios, eerie silences, and a substitute striker whose name has never needed...
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