Big Freeze causes cup fixture pile up

The return of snow and ice to Scotland's capital resulted in a number of burst pipes at the ground, forcing the postponement on the grounds of public safety, with Hearts optimistic the game will now be played on Tuesday evening, with a 7.30pm kick-off.

A Hearts spokesman said: "The pitch at Tynecastle is in perfect condition however public safety is our priority and we were left with no option other than to postpone the game. We are confident the tie will go ahead on Tuesday."

Yesterday's fourth round matches between Queen of the South and Brechin, Morton and Airdrie and Falkirk and Partick also fell victim to the weather. The ties at Falkirk and Palmerston Park have been rescheduled for this Tuesday (both 7.45pm) with the game at Greenock booked in for 18 January (7.30pm).

The third round replay between Threave Rovers and Stenhousemuir was again postponed yesterday and the game is now scheduled for tomorrow night and failing that, Wednesday.

Four of the seven fourth-round ties which were played yesterday ended in draws, meaning more midweek fixtures in an already cluttered calendar. Peterhead and St Mirren will meet again on 18 January at Balmoor, causing the postponement of the SPL match between Rangers and Saints scheduled for that night.

Similarly, Hibs' replay against Ayr United at Somerset on 19 January means a new date will need to be found for the Easter Road side's SPL match at Hamilton which had been pencilled in for the night before. Ross County and Dundee United will replay at Dingwall on 18 January. Dunfermline will host Montrose on Tuesday. The fifth round draw is on Tuesday at Hampden at 2.30pm.