Another four games played in the month of October, with only one win it was probably a month to forget…
[LEAGUE] Hearts 0 Hibernian 0.
As detailed in the match day live post we drew 0-0 with Edinburgh rivals Hibernian. This was our first Edinburgh derby as Hearts manager and we would have liked to have got all three points.
Both teams had plenty of changes to put themselves into the lead however neither could capitalise on them. Hearts didn’t have lady luck on their side, especially with a number of their shots on goal hitting the woodwork.
The game was ferocious and the referee was busy with dishing out cards. The main talking point of the game was the referee’s decision not to award Hearts a penalty after Steven Naismith was wrestled to the ground by Ryan Porteous, scandalous!
[LEAGUE] Hearts 1 Motherwell 2.
Another home game and this time Hearts welcomed Motherwell. The steelmen were in good form coming into the game so it would not be an easy game for the Jambos.
It was Motherwell who took the lead through striker Chris Long; he got on the end of a through ball by Alan Campbell and finished past Zander Clark. Motherwell extended their lead early in the second half with a goal from on loan striker Devante Cole. Andy’s Coles son used his strength to hold off Stipe Vucur before blasting the ball into the back of the net.
Hearts got a consolation goal with 5 minutes to go, the ball fell to the edge of the box where Andy Irving struck it with force, it found its way through a group of players and past the unsighted goalkeeper.
Hearts goal scorer Alan Campbell (left)
[LEAGUE] Ross County 1 Hearts 2.
As detailed in our most recent match day live post we managed to take all three points at the Global Energy stadium, home of Ross County.
Hearts were awarded a penalty after Steven Naismith was tripped in the box. Jamie Walker stepped up and converted it to put Heats in the lead. Billy McKay then equalised for the home side before going close to putting Ross County ahead.
Steven Naismith then scored a beauty to take all three points back to Edinburgh.
[LEAGUE] St Johnstone 3 Hearts 0.
It was another away game and our last game of the month. We travelled to Perth where we visited St Johnstone, another team in fine form which could prove for a tricky game.
It seemed that most of the Hearts players were still on the coach as St Johnstone shot out the blocks and were 2-0 by half time. Hearts manager Adam Robertson was furious with his players making two chances at half time.
Hearts played better in the second half but couldn’t get back into the game. St Johnstone killed the game with 10 minutes to go when Michael O’Halloran found himself in behind the Hearts defence; he calmly placed his shot to the side of former St Johnstone goalkeeper Zander Clark.
St Johnstone goal scorer Michael O’Halloran.
Our next update will be a match day live post for our visit to Celtic Park, wish us luck!
Welcome to the wonderful would of Athletic Club. A truly fascinating club from top to bottom. I am aiming to have long term save with Athletic Club with lots of added challenges to keep me playing way into the future.
Grab a cup of tea and let’s get into the introduction…
So why have I taken on Athletic Club?
The challenge: Everyone knows that Athletic Club cannot sign non-Basque players, and are encouraged to develop their own players through the clubs youth system. Now that’s a challenge I want to take on.
The club can however sign Spanish players aged 16 or below. This gives us the opportunity to bring in players from elsewhere and develop them within the culture of the club.
The culture: It’s clear to see that the culture of the club is close knit. Not many players leave this great club. Most chose to stay and go on to have a long career in Bilbao.
You just have to look at the player past and present that have amassed hundreds of appearances for the club, some playing a total of 18 years with Athletic Club.
The potential: The youth system at Athletic Club is superb, some of the players they have produced in the past have gone on to play for in World Cups, European Championships, and Champions League Finals. There is so much potential to produce yours players, the big challenge is keeping them at the club.
Current young players such as Iñigo Córdoba, Unai Núñez and Asier Villalibre who all come through the youth system will be pushing for first team places from the start.
My career challenges…
During this save we want to challenge ourselves. The aim of the save is long term play so I have decided to put in some challenges that are going to keep me playing well into the future. The challenges have been split into two categories; making history and developing talent.
Here’s a summary below:
Making history…
An honourable man
Fred Pentland is the most successful manager of Athletic Club’s history, he won 2 La Liga and 5 Cope del Rey titles between 1929 and 1933.
Our challenge is to surpass his honours and become the most successful manager in the clubs history.
The club stalwart
Currently José Ángel Iribar holds the record for the most league appearances for Athletic Club, 466.
Our challenge is to have a player surpass his record and become the clubs all-time leading appearance holder. I would ideally like a newgen to achieve this accolade.
He scores for fun
Currently Telmo Zarra holds the record for the most league goals for Athletic Club, 255.
Our challenge is to have a player surpass his record and become the clubs all-time leading goal scorer. Again I would ideally like a newgen to achieve this accolade.
European Giants
Athletic Club have never won a continental competition. They have however come close, finishing as runners-up twice in 1976/77 and 2011/12.
Our challenge is to bring home a European trophy, ideally the Champions League.
Developing talent…
Internationally recognised
In the fashion of wanting a long term save, I have set a challenge of producing at least 25 youth graduates that go on to represent Spain at full international level.
A Basque leader
Again during this long term save I have set the challenge of producing a youth graduate that goes on to captain Spain at full international level.
Scored on the world stage
Not only do I want players to represent and captain Spain, I want them to add more. I have set the challenge of producing a youth graduate score at least 25 goals for Spain at full international level.
Los Leones Legend
Arguably the hardest challenge of them all. I have set myself the challenge of producing a youth graduate that goes on to win the World Footballer of the Year Award.
No Basque player has ever won this accolade and the last Spanish player to win this was Barcelona’s original Luis Suárez in 1960.
Now the challenges are out of the way, let’s learn a little about the history of Athletic Club:
The club was formed back in 1898 in the city of Bilbao, in the Basque Country of Spain. In the late 19th century, Bilbao was a leading industrial town and attracted many migrant workers, in particular from Britain. These British workers brought football to Bilbao whilst Basque students, who were returned from schools in Britain, also had a keen interest in the game. When they returned from their schools they began to arrange games with the British workers. In 1898 Basque students founded the Athletic Club, using the English spelling.
A blast from the past…
In 1902, Bilbao Football Club and Athletic Club combined to enter competitions. The team was known as ‘Club Bizcaya’, entered the Copa de la Coronacion in 1902, and went on to win the competition beating a teams such as Club Espanol, New Foot-ball Club, Barcelona and Madrid FC (who went on to become Real Madrid CF in 1920).
Athletic Club went on to play in the first five Copa del Rey finals (one under ‘Union Bizcaya’), winning the first two in 1903 against Madrid FC and 1904 against Espanol de Madrid. The three finals that they lost were all to Madrid FC. The club have gone on to win 23 Copa del Rey trophies in their history.
La Liga & Copa del Rey winners in 1983/84.
Athletic Club also went on to win their first La Liga tile in the 1929/30 season where the managed to go undefeated under English manager Fred Pentland. The club have gone on to win 8 La Liga titles in their history, with the last on coming in 1983/84 under manager Javier Clemente.
The club is famous for its transfer policy of only allowing Basque players to play for the club; this is linked to the clubs ‘cantera’ policy of bringing young Basques players through their ranks. The club have followed this policy since 1912 and have been praised for their work in promoting home grown players and club loyalty. Did you know that the club’s nickname is ‘Los Leones’ which in English is ‘The Lions’, quite a catchy name for a title…
Athletic Club have won 35 official honours in their history, including 8 La Liga titles, 23 Copa del Rey titles, 2 Supercopa de Espana titles, a Copa Eva Duarte title and a Copa de la Coronacion title. On top of this the club were officially runners-up 24 times during their history.
Athletic Club’s last trophy in 2015.
La Liga (8): 1929/30, 1930/31, 1933/34, 1935,36, 1942/43, 1955/56, 1982/83 & 1983/84.
Copa del Rey (23): 1903, 1904, 1910, 1911, 1914, 1915, 1916, 1921, 1923, 1930, 1931, 1932, 1933, 1943, 1944, 1944–45, 1949–50, 1955, 1956, 1958, 1969, 1972–73 & 1983–84.
Supercopa de España (2): 1984 & 2015.
Copa Eva Duarte (1): 1950.
Copa de la Coronación (1): 1902.
As part of the career challenges I thought it would be useful to show you the top 10 players that have made the most appearances for the club. (Note: there is a little Easter egg in here that you will notice later on in the series).
Legendary goalkeeper Iribar.
1. Jose Angel Iribar Kortajarena (1962-1980) 614 club appearances
2. Jose Francisco Rojo Arroitia (1965-1982) 541 club appearances
3. Joseba Andoni Etxeberria Lizardi (1995-2010) 514 club appearances
4. Andoni Iraola Sagarna (2003-2015) 510 club appearances
5. Markel Susaeta Laskurain (2007-2019) 507 club appearances
6. Agustin Gainza Vicandi (1939-1959) 486 club appearances
7. Jose Maria Orue Aranguren (1950-1968) 480 club appearances
8. Aitor Lazzazabal Bilbao (1990-2004) 445 club appearances
9. Nicanor Sagarduy Gonzalo (1948-1963) 435 club appearances
10. Julen Guerrero Lopez (1992-2006) 430 club appearances
As mentioned above in line with the career challenges, here are the top 10 all-time goal scorers for Athletic Club:
Legendary striker Telmo Zarra.
1. Pedro Telmo Zarraonandia Montoya (1940-1955) 333 club goals
2. Daniel Ruiz-Bazan Justa (1974-1986) 199 club goals
3. Artiz Aduriz Zubeldia (2002-2012) 171 club goals
4. Eneko Arieta-Araunabena Piedra (1951-1966) 170 club goals
5. Jose Luis Lopez Panizo (1938-1955) 163 club goals
6. Agustin Gainza Vicandi (1939-1959) 149 club goals
7. Guillermo Gorostiza Paredes (1929-1940) 148 club goals
8. Agustin Sauto Arana (1929-1936) 141 club goals
9. Jose Luis Artetxe Muguire (1950-1965) 133 club goals
10. Ismael Urzaiz Aranda (1996-2007) 129 club goals
Again, as mentioned above in line with the career challenges, here are 12 managers that have won trophies during their time at Athletic Clubs;
Legendary manager Fred Pentland.
Fred Pentland – 2 La Liga, 5 Copa del Rey
Javier Clemente – 2 La Liga, 1 Copa del Rey, 1 Supercopa de Espana
Juan Urkizu – 1 La Liga, 2 Copa del Rey
Ferdinand Daučík – 1 La Liga, 2 Copa del Rey
Billy Barnes – 3 Copa del Rey
Patricio Caicedo – 1 La Liga
José María Olabarría & William Garbutt – 1 La Liga
Baltasar Albéniz – 1 Copa del Rey
Rafael Iriondo – 1 Copa del Rey
Milorad Pavić – 1 Copa del Rey
Ernesto Valverde – 1 Supercopa de España
José Iraragorri – 1 Copa Eva Duarte
We hope you enjoyed the introduction to ‘Los Leones’. Our next update will be a club overview, looking at the club vision, staff, who the new manager will be and much more.
Ladbrokes Premiership 26/10/19 at Global Energy Stadium 15:00 kick off
Press conference
Hearts press conference.
Adam Robertson (Manager)
“I feel we played really well against Hibs and should have won the game. I can’t say much more on the penalty incident as I’m already in trouble, but we’ve all seen it and it, haven’t we?”
“We’ve rotated the squad the players having knocks and needing rests. Hickey will play and he absolutely deserves to play, the boy has been tremendous in training”.
“Steven Naismith has been good when he’s come on late in games, it’s itching to start a game and this might the game that he starts”.
“I’ve told the lads that this is a must win game; we need to get back to winning ways”.
Aaron Hickey (Player)
“I’m learning so much being a part of the team and coming on in games. I’ve added a lot to my game of late and want fans to see that on the pitch”.
“I’ve heard that there has been interest in me, but I’m fully focused at Hearts. They’ve stood by me and I intend to stand by them”.
“We all know we should be playing better than we are, I think the Hibs game has given us confidence to go on and get the three points against Ross County”.
Hearts full back Aaron Hickey.
Build up
Team selection
We made a number of changes to freshen things up a bit. Michael Smith replaced Jamie Brandon who had a good game against Hibs. Aaron Hickey also comes in for Aidan White who has been poor of late; Hickey has been tremendous week in week out in training. Naismith comes in for his first start of the season and Jamie Walker replaces Ryotoro Meshino in the starting line-up.
Some new faces on the bench for the first time this season. Oliver Bozanic gets in to the squad after recovering from an injury, whilst Christophe Berra and Zlamal also join the squad after injuries.
Hearts midfielder Oliver Bozanic.
Starting XI
Clark Smith Souttar Vucur Hickey Fletcher Naismith Clare Wallace Walker Ikpeazu
Subs
Zlamal Berra White Damour Bozanic Meshino
Washington
First half
Hearts kicked off the match and played the ball out to Jamie Walker who had a go at the Ross County full back; the defender won the duel but could only give away a corner. The corner was whipped in by Walker, but Ikpeazu’s header was off target.
Hearts threatened again with Wallace this time. He cut inside and curled the ball to the back post, former Hearts goalkeeper Colin Doyle managed to tip the ball out for a corner.
Hearts winger Ross Wallace.
Ross County then pressured Hearts and got themselves a corner. The corner was taken by Michael Gardyne, it was met at the back post by Greg Halford and took a good save by Zander Clark to prevent a goal.
Steven Naismith then found some space in behind the Ross County midfield he spun the ball out to Ross Wallace who attacked the full back, Wallace cut the ball back to Naismith who entered the box and was tripped by Halford, the referee awarded the penalty. Jamie Walker stepped up and tucked the penalty away into the goalkeeper’s bottom corner.
Ross County 0 Hearts 1.
Hearts goal scorer Jamie Walker.
Ross County then threw men forward in search of an equaliser. Striker Billy McKay took down a high ball and shifted the ball onto his left foot. His shot was easily saved by Zander Clark and cleared away by Michael Smith.
It was Billy McKay who would get the breakthrough for Ross County. A wonderful cross from Michael Gardyne found its way to McKay at the back post, he flicked the ball and it looped over the top of Zander Clark.
Ross County 1 Hearts 1.
Ross County goal scorer Billy McKay.
The referee blew his whistle and ended and eventful first half.
Half time; Ross County 1 Hearts 1.
Second half
Hearts started the better of the both sides with a number of attacks on the Ross County goal. The main one to highlight was a crossed ball into Uche Ikpeazu. Instead of taking a shot first time he brought the ball down and shifted it onto his right foot, by then Greg Halford has managed to get himself in the way of the strikers shot.
Hearts had another chance from a corner. Ross Wallace put the ball into the box where Stipe Vucur nodded it towards the back post. John Souttar rose with Greg Halford, however it was the Ross County defender who won the challenge.
Nearing the hour mark Hearts continued to push for a goal. Scotland international Steven Naismith found himself in acres of space on the edge of the Ross County box. He took one touch and stroked the ball into the keeper’s top corner, what a finish!
Ross County 1 Hearts 2.
Hearts goal scorer Steven Naismith.
Hearts were fully on top and kept on testing Colin Doyle in the Ross County goal. The away side managed 11 shots on target but the former Hearts man between the sticks was determined to keep his side in the game.
Ross County only had one shot on target in the second half. This come from a cross from the left hand side of the pitch, Michael Gardyne had delivered a floating ball and Hearts defender Stipe Vucur misjudge the flight of it, his header was tame and fell to the feet of Billy McKay, his shot tested Zander Clark, however the Hearts keeper got a strong hand to it to keep it out of the net.
There was time for a bit of late drama. Uche Ikpeazu climbed for a header against Ross County’s Greg Halford, Ikpeazu won the header and both players fell to the ground, it appeared that Halford had stamped on the thigh of Ikpeazu, however the referee did not see this. He booked Halford for a foul and awarded Hearts a free kick.
Ross County defender Greg Halford.
The referee ended the match after 5 minutes of added on time.
Full time; Ross County 1 Hearts 2.
FULL TIME: Ross County 1 Hearts 0
Man of the match
Steven Naismith was awarded man of the match. He managed to bag the winning goal for the away side and get all three points. Let’s hope this ends a pretty miserable run of late.
Man of the match: Steven Naismith.
Needs to improve
Not much improvement needed from today’s game. The only issue was midfielder lost possession a number of times, we need to nip that in the bud.
Our next post will be a monthly update for October.
Ladbrokes Premiership 06/10/19 at Tynecastle 13:00 kick off
Press conference
Hearts press conference.
Adam Robertson (Manager)
“The Rangers game has been and gone now, we need to forget about it and move on. We were not good enough across the team and were made to pay for it”.
“These are the games that you are judged on as a manager. It’s important for me that I get off to a winning start in the Edinburgh derby”.
“I played in plenty of these games and I think I had a pretty good record. Scoring in these games is really special; it’s something that has stayed with me all my career”.
“The lads have trained really well and we are confident of a good performance against Hibs”.
Darren Fletcher (Player)
“The team knows that we have to improve on our last two performances. None of us have been at the level that we want to be at this season”.
“We need to start on the front foot in this game and ideally get an early lead. We need the fans to get behind us and cheer us on, Tynecastle needs to be rocking”.
“I’ve watched Edinburgh derbies since I was a kid and there is no games like them!”.
Hearts midfielder Darren Fletcher.
Build up
Team selection
Only the two changes from the Rangers game. Jamie Brandon comes in for Michael Smith who has not been performing in recent matches. Brandon has been training well of late and fully deserve his change in this huge game. The other change is Ryotoro Meshino who replaces Jamie Walker. Walker has been playing well but is very fatigued from recent games, Meshino has looked bright when introduced to matches.
Hearts full back Jamie Brandon.
Starting XI
Clark Brandon Souttar Vucur White Fletcher Irving Clare Wallace Meshino Ikpeazu
Subs
Pereira Halkett Hickey Damour Walker Naismith
Washington
First half
The game started really slow with both teams making mistakes. Hibernian full back David Gray misjudged a pass back to Marciano, which was picked up by Hearts striker Uche Ikpeazu however Ryan Porteous raced back to put the ball out for a corner.
Aidan White then decided to do exactly the same at the other end, Hibs striker Oli Shaw picked up the loose ball and drove towards goal, his shot looked to be going in but Zander Clark got his fingers to it to push it wide of the goal.
Hearts goalkeeper Zander Clark.
The game then started to get messy with tackles flying in left, right and centre. However the referee decided to let the game flow and not get his cards out just yet.
Hearts had the best chance before the break when Japanese winger Ryotoro Meshino flew past David Gray and delivered a whipped cross into the box. Uche Ikpeazu beat Paul Hanlon to the ball but his header shaved the post.
Hearts striker Uche Ikpeazu.
There was no added time at the end of the first half.
Half time; Hearts 0 Hibernian 0
Second half
The second half had to be more entertaining. It was Hearts then got off on the front foot and were awarded a corner. The corner was taken by Ross Wallace who delivered a fine ball, it was met with force by John Souttar but Daryln Horgan was on the post to clear it off the line.
Hearts full back Jamie Brandon. Koi
Hibs made the first change of the game bring Hallberg off for Scott Allan. This had an immediate effect with Allan producing a superb through ball to Oli Shaw. Shaw’s first touch was great and set him up for a shot at goal but Hearts centre back Stipe Vucur made a terrific tackle to knock the ball away.
Hearts then made the best of failed attack by Hibs. Ryotoro Meshino sprinted up the touchline ready to fire the ball inside to Sean Clare when Jordon Mutch chopped him down. This caused a fuss with Hearts players calling for a red card, the referee decided otherwise and only gave Mutch a yellow card.
Hibs midfielder Jordon Mutch.
Not long after it was Vucur testing the referees nerve. Scott Allan skipped past Aidan White and looked to put in a cross when Vucur crunched into him. This one looked worse than the previous however the referee again only cautioned Vucur.
It was Darren Fletcher who then decided to skate on thin ice when he led with his elbow in a challenge with Mutch, the referee broke up the players and showed Fletcher a yellow card after a long debate with him.
Hearts then introduced Damour, Walker and Naismith in an attempt to wrestle this game back into their favour. On the 80th minute mark Steven Naismith played a one-two with Jamie Walker and was pulled to the ground by Hibs centre back Ryan Porteous. The referee waved played on and was loudly booed by the home fans.
Steven Naismith didn’t agree with the referee.
Steven Naismith clashed with Ryan Porteous again when the Scotland international went head to head with the young defender. Naismith went to ground holding his head and complained that Porteous has head butted him, the referee disagreed and cautioned Porteous for his behaviour.
The referee then blew for full time ended a rather miserable game.
Full time; Hearts 0 Hibernian 0
Man of the match
Stipe Vucur was awarded man of the match. The Austrian defender had a decent game, making a number of key tackles to prevent Hibs from scoring.
Man of the match Stipe Vucur.
Needs to improve
I’d like to say the referee for his decision not to award Hearts a penalty. I can’t remember who the referee was but John Beaton normally gets stick for this sort of thing, so I blame him.
The blame is on John Beaton.
Our next post will be another match day live against newly promoted Ross County.
Only four games this month, with two already covered in our match day live post. Let’s jump straight in…
[LEAGUE] Hearts 3 Livingston 0.
Following on from our 5-3 win against Hamilton, we met Livingston at Tynecastle. The team remained the same as we wanted to keep momentum and grab all three points.
In similar fashion to the Hamilton game, we were leading 2-0 at half time strolling through the game. The first half goals come from Uche Ikpeazu and Jamie Walker.
In the second half, Ross Wallace scored the third goal of the game before Livingston parked the bus and prevented Hearts scoring anymore.
Hearts goalscorer Uche Ikpeazu.
[LEAGUE] Hearts 1 Kilmarnock 0.
Another home game in the league and this time against Kilmarnock. Killie were struggling from a massive pre-season where they went through 3 rounds of qualifying for the Europa League, the players were exhausted.
Hearts dominated most of the game but could not find the breakthrough as Killie sat back and defended everything that come at them.
Ryotoro Meshino was introduced in the second half and scored the only goal of the game with a dazzling run and finish.
Hearts goalscorer Ryotoro Meshino.
[CUP] Hearts 1 Aberdeen 3
As detailed in our match day live blog, we met Aberdeen in the quarter finals of the Betfred Cup.
Aberdeen took the lead late in the first half through Niall McGinn. However Hearts managed to pull a goal back on the 64th through Stipe Vucur.
Aberdeen then ran away with the game with James Wilson and Jon Gallagher adding to the scoring to take the Dons through to the Betfred Cup Semi Finals.
Hearts 1 Aberdeen 3.
[LEAGUE] Rangers 3 Hearts 0.
Again, you can find a detailed report in our most recent match day live post.
Rangers dominated this game from start to finish with their goals coming from Sheyi Ojo, Jordan Jones and Jermaine Defoe.
Hearts had their changes but were not clinical enough, a bad day at the office!
Rangers 3 Hearts 0.
Our next post will be the first Edinburgh Derby of the season taking place at Tynescatle.
Ladbrokes Premiership 28/9/19 at Ibrox Stadium 15:00 kick off Attendance: 50,817
Press conference
Hearts press conference.
Adam Robertson (Manager)
“We’re obviously disappointed with the Aberdeen result. That one will probably hurt for a while. We had to lift our heads up and concentrate on the game against Rangers now”.
“It’s going to be a really tough game. Rangers have some excellent players and I think that they will push Celtic close this year”.
“The Morelos injury doesn’t make it easier for us, they have Jermaine Defoe who we all know could score at any given opportunity. We need to stay focused for 90 minutes”.
“We’re not going to sit back and park the bus. We want to give Rangers something to think about. There won’t be many changes to the side that played against Aberdeen”.
Jamie Walker (Player)
“The lads are gutted still, but the manager has spoken us all and we’re up for this game against Rangers”.
“Rangers have been struggling but the quality is there to see. We need to stay on our game and take our opportunities when we get them”.
“I’ve been enjoying my football so far this season, I feel that I’m in great shape and I love working with the manager. It’s a good time to be at Hearts”.
Hearts winger Jamie Walker.
Build up
Team selection
Only one change from the game against Aberdeen, Zander Clark who recently arrived from St Johnstone replaces Joel Pereira between the sticks.
No further changes on the bench.
Hearts goalkeeper Zander Clark.
Starting XI
Clark Smith Souttar Vucur White Fletcher Irving Clare Wallace Walker Ikpeazu
Subs
Pereira Halkett Hickey Damour Meshino Naismith
Washington
First half
Rangers kick off today’s match at Ibrox and were immediately on the front foot. On loan Liverpool winger Sheyi Ojo burst past Hearts full back Michael Smith and headed for goal. He cut the ball back to the edge of the box where Joe Aribo fired the ball over the bar.
Rangers continued to push forward. Rangers captain James Tavernier delivered a wonderful cross from the right, the cross found its way to the back post where Sheyi Ojo volleyed it towards goal. Debutant Zander Clark could only parry the ball into the side netting. Great start for Rangers.
Rangers 1 Hearts 0.
Rangers winger Sheyi Ojo.
Hearts then stepped up a level and started to ask questions of the Rangers defences. A cross from Aidan White found the head of Uche Ikpeazu, however his header was easily saved by Allan McGregor.
Another cross, this time from Michael Smith, again found the Hearts forward. This time his header beat Allan McGregor, only for it to bounce back off the crossbar. Rangers centre back Conor Goldson cleared the ball into the stands.
Hearts threatened again just before the break. A splitting pass from Darren Fletcher founds it was in behind the Rangers defence. Jamie Walker beat James Tavernier to the ball and he cross found the late run of Sean Clare who volleyed the ball goal wards. Allan McGregor was beaten once more, but luck was on his side, as the ball struck the post and went out for a goal kick.
Hearts midfielder Sean Clare.
The referee blew his whistle to mark the end of the first half.
Half time; Rangers 1 Hearts 0.
Second half
Hearts kicked off the second half and pumped the ball forward for Uche Ikpeazu, Filip Helander challenged the Hearts forward and caught him a wandering elbow. The referee awarded a free kick to Hearts and showed the Swedish international a yellow card.
It was Rangers turn to pump the ball forward. Ryan Jack played a superb ball over the top of Hearts full back Aidan White, who was in no man’s land. Stipe Vucur rushed across to cover his team mate, however could not deal with the pace of Jordan Jones. He tugged on the shirt of the Northern Ireland international and pulled him to the ground. The referee awarded a free kick to Rangers and cautioned the Hearts centre back.
In almost similar fashion, Ryan Jack played an identical back to Jordan Jones. Vucur again chased Jones but was hesitant in making any contact. Jones skipped past the Austrian and took a shot, his shot cannoned off John Souttar but fell back into his path where he simply placed the ball past Zander Clark.
Rangers 2 Hearts 0.
Rangers winger Jordan Jones.
Hearts were now chasing the game and decided to bring on Steven Naismith. Naismith was booed by the homes fans but this did not put him off. Within 5 minutes of coming on, Jamie Walker found the feet of Naismith who shifted the ball onto his right foot and struck the ball goal wards. Allan McGregor at full stretch managed to tip the ball out for a corner.
The corner was delivered by Jamie Walker and fouind the head of Uche Ikpeazu, who was being wrestled by Rangers centre back Filip Helander. Ikpeazu managed to win the header but the ball sailed well over the goal.
Hearts striker Uche Ikpeazu.
Hearts continued to commit men forward but could not find a break through. One attack broke down and Jordan Jones raced forward. Hearts midfielder Sean Clare tracked him but could not deal with the wingers pace. He took one for the team a tripped Jones and received a yellow card for his actions.
Three minutes into stoppage time, Hearts pushed for a consolation, however Allan McGregor caught an awful cross and immediately found Jermaine Defoe. Defoe dribbled the ball towards the 18 yard box where he had the option to square it to Sheyi Ojo. Defoe decided to take it himself and placed the ball into the corner of Zander Clarks goal, a sublime finish too.
Rangers 3 Hearts 0.
Rangers striker Jermaine Defoe.
Hearts kicked off and hoofed the ball forward, however the referee blew his whistle to signal the end of the game.
Full time; Rangers 3 Hearts 0.
Man of the match
Sheyi Ojo was awarded man of the match, however it could have been any of the Rangers players. Ojo terrified full back Aidan White, who has not been having the best of times of late. The on loan Liverpool winger also managed to grab his first goal for Rangers.
Man of the match: Sheyi Ojo.
Needs to improve
Take your pick, Aidan White was awful but the vote goes to Uche Ikpeazu with a 6.2 rating. He had chances to get Hearts back in the game but was not clinical enough. His early pre-season form has fizzled away.
Our next post will be a monthly update, we then plan to move the story on a bit so there might a little less match day live posts.
Betfred Cup Quarter Final 24/9/19 at Tynecastle Park 19:30 kick off Attendance: 14,567
Press conference
Adam Robertson (Manager)
“I’m really pleased with our performances throughout August. We are playing some excellent football of late; our confidence is starting to show”.
“The Hamilton game was particularly pleasing; we showed how clinical we can be. Sean Clare was unplayable in that game and I hope he takes that performance into the Aberdeen game”.
“I have no doubt that we can go all the way in this competition. We’re all here to win; it’s as simple as that”.
John Souttar (Player)
“I think it’s shown in the last few matches that the team is ready for a challenge this season. We are all determined to do well this season”.
“I had an opportunity to leave the club this summer and after sitting down with the manager and discussing the clubs aims this season and next, it made me want to stay”.
“I want to up my game this season and push for a place in the Scotland squad, I’ve had conversations with Steve Clarke previously and hope to be involved at some point this season”
“The Betfred Cup is a competition we should be targeting; we are a win away from taking the fans back to Hampden. It’s a special place to play and I want to be walking up those stairs to lift the cup!”.
Hearts defender John Souttar.
Build up
Team selection
Aberdeen proved to be no pushovers in our game against them in the league, it was important to name a strong squad if we wanted to progress to the semi-finals.
A few players were not 100% fit the match today which meant we had to rotate. Aaron Hickey who has been excellent of late dropped to the bench, with Aidan White taking the left back spot. Stipe Vucur replaced Craig Halkett who was still recovering from the last match and Ryotoro Meshino dropped to the bench for Jamie Walker.
Connor Washington, who has been training very well of late, stays on the bench as in-from Uche Ikpeazu, he cannot stop scoring at the moment.
Hearts striker Connor Washington.
Starting XI
Pereira Smith Souttar Vucur White Fletcher Irving Clare Wallace Walker Ikpeazu
Subs
Zlamal Halkett Hickey Damour Meshino Naismith
Washington
First half
The match started slow with both sides hesitant to throw men forward. Hearts made the first move with an attack down the right, a cross from full back Michael Smith was defended well by Aberdeen centre half Scott McKenna.
It was then Aberdeen’s turn to venture forward, Niall McGinn skilfully beat Micheal Smith and delivered a low cross. Sam Cosgrove managed to get himself on the end of it but couldn’t get his shot on target.
Aberdeen threatened again. Former Manchester United player James Wilson burst down the right and swung the ball to the back post to the oncoming Niall McGinn, his volley shaved the crossbar and was caught by one of the home fans.
The breakthrough come late in the first half. Aberdeen had dominated most of the first half and finished it off well. Niall McGinn who had been unstoppable this half, skipped past the Hearts full back. He played a one-two with striker Sam Cosgrove and curled the ball into the far corner.
Hearts 0 Aberdeen 1.
Aberdeen winger Niall McGinn.
Hearts were awarded a corner right at the end of the first half. The ball was whipped in by Jamie Walker and met by John Souttar. His header was ferocious but was no match for Aberdeen goalkeeper Joe Lewis.
The referee blew the whistle to end the first half;
Half time; Hearts 0 Aberdeen 1.
Second half
Hearts made a change at half time. They decided to bring off Sean Clare, who had been brilliant in the previous game and replace him with Steven Naismith. Naismith was deployed just behind Uche Ikpeazu in a shadow striker role.
Hearts forward Steven Naismith.
It was Hearts that started the second half better. They kept the ball and worked the wings well. Jamie Walker got the better of Shay Logan and found Uche Ikpeazu with his cross, only for his header to be saved by Joe Lewis.
The home side then managed to find their way back into the game. A corner was taken by Jamie Walker, it was floated to the back post where it was met by Austrian defender Stipe Vucur, he headed the ball towards the ground where Joe Lewis couldn’t get down quick enough.
Hearts 1 Aberdeen 1.
Hearts defender Stipe Vucur.
Unfortunately the home side were not level for too long. Aberdeen piled on the pressure from kick off and an excellent through ball by Shay Logan found James Wilson who dinked the ball over Manchester United loanee Joel Pereira.
Hearts 1 Aberdeen 2.
Aberdeen striker James Wilson.
Aberdeen broke forward again after a Hearts attack failed, Niall McGinn picked up the ball on the half way line and headed towards goal. Hearts skipper for the day, Darren Fletcher took one for the team and tripped McGinn from behind. This caused a scene as players from both teams began to push and shove each other. Aberdeen were awarded a free kick and Fletcher was booked for his foul.
Hearts were chasing the game, when a mistake by Michael Smith let James Wilson in behind. He cut the ball back to Aberdeen midfieder Jon Gallagher who fired the ball past the Hearts goalkeeper.
Hearts 1 Aberdeen 3.
Aberdeen midfielder Jon Gallagher.
The home side were out of gas. Not even Ryotoro Meshino could come up with some magic to get them back in the game. The second half fizzled out and the Aberdeen fans were in full voice.
The referee ended the game, Aberdeen were off to Hampden.
Full time; Hearts 1 Aberdeen 3.
FULL TIME; Hearts 1 Aberdeen 3.
Man of the match
Niall McGinn. He was easily the best player on the part today. He was brilliant to watch, making three key passes throughout the game, assisting one goal. Michael Smith won’t want to come up against him again anytime soon.
Man of the match Niall McGinn.
Needs to improve
Michael Smith. As mentioned above he was tore apart by Niall McGinn today, If we would have had Jamie Brandon on the bench, Smith would have most definitely been taken off early.
Hearts full back Michael Smith.
Our next post will be a match day live post against Rangers. Steven Gerrard’s men are struggling at the moment, knocked out of Europe and dropping points all over the board, could we take advantage of this?
All in all August was a pretty good month for us. 3 wins out of 5 and a well fought draw against the champions Celtic.
As this is an update post I want to keep it short and sweet so that we can get back to the action…
[LEAGUE] Hearts 1 Celtic 1
Hearts 1 Celtic 1.
As detailed in the match day live post we kicked off our season against Celtic at Tynecastle.
During the game we battled hard and managed to take a share of the points. The first goalscorer of the seasons was English striker Uche Ikpeazu who continued his impressive pre-season form.
Celtic striker Odsonne Eduoard tormented us for most of the game but our defence put in a fine performance to keep us in the game.
[LEAGUE] St Mirren 0 Hearts 1
Hearts goalscorer Ross Wallace.
Our first away of the season came against St Mirren. The paisley side are one of the favourites to go down this year, would this prove to be an easy three points?
No. St Mirren put in a really good performance, testing our defence and asking questions of our midfield. The breakthrough come when Ross Wallace headed in a cross from Jamie Walker in the second half.
St Mirren had a late shout for a penalty for the referee bravely waved play on. No one will be buying him a pint in Paisley anytime soon.
[CUP] Hearts 4 Falkirk 3
Hearts 4 Falkirk 3.
You will have seen form our most recent match day live post that we met Falkirk in the 2nd round of the Betfred Cup. The game was a thriller, with Hearts coming out on top.
The match was end to end entertainment. Falkirk went ahead on the hour make and forced Hearts to make changes. The changes took full affect with the home side equalising with four minutes to go.
There was more late drama when Hearts striker Uche Ikpeazu headed home a last minute winter to put Hearts through to the quarter finals where they would meet Aberdeen.
[LEAGUE] Aberdeen 2 Hearts 1
Hearts goalscorer Steven Naismith.
Match day 3 was a tough one, we come up against Aberdeen. Derek McInnes named a strong side and decided to start a war of words against me pre-match, let’s have it.
We shot out of the blocks with an early goal. Steven Naismith, who was playing just I’m behind Uche Ikpeazu, finished an excellent cross from full back Aaron Hickey.
However Aberdeen dominated the rest of the match. Sam Cosgrove scored both goals for the home side directly from corners, that’s us doing some corner drills in training tomorrow!
[LEAGUE] Hamilton 3 Hearts 5
Man of the match Sean Clare.
The last game of the month was a thriller. We travelled to Hamilton to pick ourselves up after the Aberdeen loss, and my word the lads put in a performance.
We were 3-0 up after 30 minutes, playing some excellent football, with Sean Clare scoring a brace. Hamilton managed to pull a goal back just before half time.
The home side scored early in the second half, but further goals from Wallace and Ikpeazu put the game to bed. Three more points, and onto the next.
Betfred Cup Quarter Final Draw
As mentioned above we were drawn at home to Aberdeen in the 2nd round of the Betfred Cup, could we get revenge for the loss at Pittodrie?…
Find out in our next update where we report live from the quarter final at Tynecastle.
“I was impressed with our performance against Celtic in our last match. We forced mistakes and made them pay for it. Hopefully we can keep up the same intensity throughout the season”.
“We’ve made a few changes for rotation purposes; we don’t have any injuries at the moment within the squad. This is an opportunity for players like Brandon and Hickey to stake a claim in the first team”.
“Craig Halkett played really well against Celtic, he’s just being rested for this match. Aaron Hickey has been training out of his skin and deserves to be in the starting lineup.
“We want to as far as possible in this competition. I feel this is an ideal opportunity to challenge for silverware and bring some success back to Tynecastle”.
Uche Ikpeazu (Player)
“I am really enjoying myself at the moment. I’m in good form and feel like I can have a very good season”.
“The team is great, most importantly for me we have good crossers of the ball so it gives me the service I need to do what I do”.
“I want to win; it’s a simple as that. I come to Hearts to challenge for silverware and I think we have the squad to do that”.
Hearts striker Uche Ikpeazu.
Build up
Team selection
We decided to rotate slightly for this game bringing in the likes of Berra, Hickey and Damour. We are aiming to use as much of the squad as we can this season, something that Hearts have suffered with of late is lots of injuries so we could do with avoiding that. Walker, Wallace and Ikpeazu are playing really well together and we didn’t want to disrupt that so they will start this game.
Irving, Mulraney and Naismith are players on the bench today that we will be looking to give minutes. Irving is developing really nicely and I can see him pushing for a first team place fairly soon. Naismith is obviously a fantastic player but I will be looking to utilise him as a shadow striker/attacking midfielder rather that up top.
Zlamal Halkett Smith Irving Meshino Mulraney Naismith
First half
The referee blew his whistle to start the first half, Hearts played the ball back to Souttar who immediately looked for Ikpeazu up top, Falkirk’s Gregor Buchanan would the first header of the game and Hearts were awarded a throw in.
6 minutes in, a Falkirk attack broke down and Hearts burst out of the blocks. Aaron Hickey raced forward and played the ball to Ross Wallace on the right hand side, he dropped his shoulder, cut inside and hit a low fizzing shot across the keeper. The keeper got a hand to the shot but couldn’t prevent it rippling the back of the net.
Hearts 1 Falkirk 0.
Hearts experienced winger Ross Wallace.
Hearts were dominant for the next 20 minutes but could not breakdown the Falkirk defence. The home side worked the ball well and were putting in quality crosses; however Uche Ikpeazu couldn’t find himself on the end of any of them.
Falkirk eventually found themselves out of their own half. A hoofed ball found the head of former Hearts player Conor Sammon who flicked it in behind Christophe Berra, Declan McManus nipped passed the aging centre half a poked the ball past Joel Pereira, route one football gets Falkirk back in the game.
Hearts 1 Falkirk 1.
Falkirk striker Declan McManus.
Hearts continued to venture forward but seemed to lack creativity in the middle of the park. French midfielder Loic Damour looked out of depth, regularly losing possession and getting bullied off the ball.
The referee blew his whistle dead on 45 minutes.
Hearts 1 Falkirk 1.
Second half
No changes at half time, both teams came out searching for the winner.
The second half started in Falkirk’s favour when a deep cross was met by Conor Sammon, Joel Pereira saved well and parried the ball out for a corner. The resulting corner was delivered to the back post where Gregor Buchanan headed wide.
Falkirk continued to push the nervous looking Hearts side; on the hour mark they earned themselves another corner. Again the ball was whipped to the back post where a familiar Gregor Buchanan met the ball, this time his header found its way past the unsighted Joel Pereira.
Hearts 1 Falkirk 2.
Falkirk captain Gregor Buchanan.
Hearts manager Adam Robertson stood on the touchline encouraging his players, they looked dejected and out of the game. Sean Clare was brought off for Steven Naismith who sat in behind Uche Ikpeazu, would this spark a bit of creativity within the side.
Naismith made a little difference; Falkirk had to readjust their formation to pick up the former Scotland international which in affect caused more space for players bursting forward. Further changes for Hearts saw Andy Irving and Ryotoro Meshino come on for Loic Damour and Jamie Walker.
Hearts continued to test the Falkirk defence who remained strong. Ryotoro Meshino tormented the Falkirk right wing back Lewis Toshney who was eventually brought off for Gary Miller.
Hearts on loan winger Ryotoro Meshino.
That change proved to be a bad one when Gary Miller switched off and let Ross Wallace run in behind him, a perfectly weighted ball from Andy Irving found Wallace who dinked it to the back post. Most of the Falkirk defenders surrounded Uche Ikpeazu desperate not to let him jump for the ball, however it evaded everyone and fell to Jamie Brandon who was arriving at the back post. He volleyed the ball past Robbie Mutch and put Hearts back in the game.
Hearts 2 Falkirk 2.
Hearts full back Jamie Brandon.
The home crowd roared the team on to get a winner and their prayers were answered when Aaron Hickey skipped past Gary Miller to deliver an unbelievable cross towards the penalty spot. Uche Ikpeazu nudged his marker out of the way and rose like a salmon, he met the ball with power and thumped it onto the post and in. Falkirk players dropped to the ground in devastation whilst the Hearts players celebrated with fans behind the goal.
Hearts 3 Falkirk 2.
Winning goal scorer Uche Ikpeazu.
There was no time for Falkirk to find an equaliser. The referee blew his whistle and ended an entertaining second half.
FULL TIME: Hearts 3 Falkirk 2.
Man of the match
Ross Wallace was awarded man of the match. The winger had a brilliant game opening the scoring and providing the assist for Hearts second goal. He constantly asked questions of the Falkirk defence with his excellent crosses and smart runs.
A close second would have been Aaron Hickey who performed brilliantly in this match. He provided two assists and whilst also carrying out his defensive duties in superb fashion.
Today’s star man Ross Wallace.
Needs to improve
Loic Damour, the French midfielder looked well of the pace today and was brought off during the second half. He let himself down in possession and was easily pushed off the ball. Unfortunately for him, Andy Iriving came off the bench and instantly made an impact. He’s going to have to train hard to get back in this side.
Hearts midfielder Loic Damour. Uh
Our next post will be a monthly update detailing our performances throughout August, we look forward to seeing you there.
“We’re really looking forward to the season ahead, we’ve recruited well and the lads are in great condition at the moment. We’re confident of challenging for the top four and qualifying for the Europa League”.
“The lads have been training really well recently; there is a real vibrancy within the squad. I have an idea of the team that I will be picking, those starting will find out on Friday”.
“Jamie Walker has been brilliant since I come in, he’s playing with confidence and I hope that he can take it into the match against Celtic”.
“Andy Irving and Aaron Hickey have both really impressive in pre-season and they will be in the squad for Saturday”
Christophe Berra (Player/Captain)
“We’re looking good; we have the players here to do something special this year. Robertson is a great capture for the club, we have no doubt he will improve this club”.
“Having Darren Fletcher with the squad is a massive bonus. He’s an incredible player and someone that has been there and done it. He still trains like he is 21 too”.
“There is a lot of experience in this side, the likes of Fletcher, Whelan, Naismith and Wallace will be so important to the development of the young lads coming through the youth side”.
Christophe Berra rally’s his troops.
Build up
Team Selection
We selected the best team available to us whilst considering players for in pre-season. One play included particularly shone in pre-season and has the potential to be a superb player, that’s is Andy Irving who plays alongside Darren Fletcher. Aidan White got the nod ahead of Aaron Hickey, Aaron has also been great in pre-season, but we thought we would play it fairly safe against the champions.
We decided to play Craig Halkett over Christophe Berra because of the threat of Odsonne Edouard. The pace of Berra absolutely scared us when coming up against a side of Celtics quality, could this decision come to haunt us?
The first half started off with a bang! Aidan White flew into a tackle with James Forrest. With my heart in my mouth the referee only decided to caution the Irishman.
Celtic dominated possession and had a number of chances to take the lead, albeit for some excellent defending from both Souttar and Halkett. James Forrest seemed to have the key to Edinburgh on the right hand side with Aidan White struggling to contain the Scotland international, however Callum McGregor struggled to find his way past young right back Jamie Brandon.
Jamie Brandon puts in a good performance.
John Souttar was cautioned towards the end of the first half for a miss timed tackle on Odsonne Edouard. The resulted free kick taken by Olivier Ntcham was comfortably saved by Joel Pereira.
Neil Lennon showed his frustrations on the side-line as his side could not find the breakthrough, whilst Hearts manager Adam Robertson encouraged his team keep the ball and look for early crosses to Uche Ikpeazu.
Half time; Hearts 0 Celtic 0.
Second Half
With both teams refreshed from their half time oranges, it was Hearts who came flying out of the blocks. A well worked free kick found Uche Ikpeazu lurking at the back post only for Fraser Forster to pull off an outstanding save. Celtic were rattled…
Hearts were on the front foot again, the ball was played out to Jamie Walker on the left hand side who skipped passed the Celtic right back and swung the ball towards the back post, unfortunately there were no takers.
Hearts were then awarded a corner, Ross Wallace delivered the cross and an unmarked Uche Ikpeazu nodded the ball straight passed the Celtic goalkeeper. The Celtic players stood and looked at each in confusion, Hearts players rushed to the corner to celebrate their first goal of the season, could they be on their way to beat the champions? Hears 1 Celtic 0.
Uche Ikpeazu puts Hearts in front.
Neil Lennon reacted furiously to Hearts goal and demanded more from his players. Within minutes of Hearts goal, whilst some fans were still celebrating, Celtic moved up a level. James Forrest who had tortured Aidan White all afternoon skipped passed him once more and cut the ball back to the deadly Odsonne Edouard, he placed the ball precisely passed the Hearts on loan goalkeeper, devastation! Hearts 1 Celtic 1.
Odsonne Edouard equalises for Celtic.
Celtic tasted blood, they brought on Scott Sinclair in place of French midfielder Olivier Ntcham and went for bust. Jamie Brandon was now in a game as Sinclair moved the left hand side, he was beaten by a sublime piece of skill from the Englishman only for him to over hit his cross.
Celtic continued to attack, Scott Brown received the ball from Greg Taylor but was tripped by Sean Clare, the referee was quick to pull out a yellow card. The ball was delivered into the box where Christopher Jullien headed the ball goal wards, however it was easily collected by the Hearts goalkeeper Joel Pereira.
Joel Pereira keeps Hearts in the game.
It was Hearts turn to turn up the heat. Aaron Hickey replaced Aidan White and Ryotoro Meshino replaced Jamie Walker, they both made an immediate impact. A clever one-two sent Meshino down the byline, he shaped up to cross but was cynically taken out by Hatem Abd Elhamed, the referee was sprinted over to show him a yellow card.
The game was end to end, which changes for either side, however neither could capitalise.
The home side had the last roll of the dice when Ross Wallace was tripped by Boli Bolingoli, who received the fifth caution of the day. The resulting free kick was floated in where Craig Halkett met the ball, his header was on target but was not good enough to beat Fraser Forster.
Celtic goalkeeper Fraser Forster.
The referee blew the final whistle to end what was a thrilling game; Hearts 1 Celtic 1.
FULL TIME: Hearts 1 Celtic 1.
Man of the match
The stand out player was Odsonne Eduoard, the Celtic striker held the ball well and linked with his midfielders. He was dangerous on the attack and forced a number of saves from Joel Pereira.
Today’s man of the match – Odsonne Eduoard
Needs to improve
Aidan White. Admittedly he got bossed by James Forrest today, White never showed anything special going forwards or tracking back. He is in danger of losing his place to Aaron Hickey, who looked good when he came on.
Hearts left back Aidan White.
The next update will be our Betfred Cup 2nd round game against Falkirk, get set for eventful game…
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