Hearts 8, Dundee United 11

Caretaker Manager Stephen Frail’s first game ‘in charge’ saw him resort to the rarely-used ploy of trying to have the game abandoned through having too many players sent off. Time ran out for Hearts, unfortunately, and the ref’s whistle blew shortly after they were reduced to 8 men.

Teams often respond to a crisis and the arrival of a new manager with a lifting of their game and a resounding victory. Hearts never looked like following this pattern and, after a scrappy first half in front of a silent crowd, seemed content and a little surprised to be level at the break.

This is probably a game that should never have happened. The Dundee United players, after all, were more likely to be affected by Phil O’Donnell’s death more than those of other teams beyond Motherwell. However, if Hearts were looking for opponents in no mood for a game, they were disappointed. Then again, Hearts did nothing to test United’s resolve in the first half.

As Hearts failed to stretch the United defence, hold up the ball in attack, or even pass to each other, the game became more and more fractious. They managed one shot on goal in the second half. United managed only a few more but three of them did find the net.

Michael Stewart had a toe-to-toe bust-up with Christophe Berra, a running niggle with the referee, and then a bitter exchange with a Hearts fan which saw him pick up his second yellow. Yes, a Hearts fan. Perhaps the cold had got to Michael and he thought he was still wearing the green of our neighbours.

So, Kilmarnock at home on Saturday. An interesting team selection in prospect. Whoever picks the team. Should we just start with 8, to be on the safe side?

Category: Hearts

Tags: Dundee United, Hearts, Stephen Frail

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