Hearts head coach Neil Critchley has addressed the frustration from supporters following a goalless draw with Motherwell that confirmed a bottom-six finish in the Scottish Premiership.
The draw at Fir Park saw Hearts miss out on a top-half spot, with striker Lawrence Shankland unable to convert late chances and Sander Kartum also spurning an opportunity earlier in the match. As a result, the Jambos will not qualify for European football through league position this season, and now must win the Scottish Cup to secure a place in the league phase of European competition. They face Aberdeen in the semi-finals at Hampden next week.
Critchley responds to fans’ frustration
After loud boos were heard from the travelling support at full-time, Critchley acknowledged the disappointment.
“Of course, I understand the frustration. We’re all feeling it,” he said. “We came here wanting to win, but it’s not just about today. You have to consider other performances and missed opportunities earlier in the season too.
“Normally, a 0-0 draw and a clean sheet away from home wouldn’t be the worst result, but not in this context. We weren’t good enough, and we need to show a strong response next week. There are still 15 points left to play for, and we have to approach those final games with the right attitude.
“I always acknowledge our fans. They came here in big numbers and spent their money to support us — they have every right to express how they feel.”
Disappointment at Fir Park
Reflecting on the performance, Critchley admitted his side didn’t do enough.
“It was a very disappointing day. I don’t think we played well, especially in the first half — we looked hesitant on and off the ball. We improved in the second half, created more chances, but didn’t take them. That’s been a theme over the last couple of weeks. You need to at least test the goalkeeper, and we didn’t do that.”
Eyes on Hampden
Looking ahead to the Scottish Cup semi-final, Critchley believes motivation won’t be an issue.
“That’s a game that speaks for itself,” he said. “We know how big it is. We’re obviously disappointed right now, but I told the players we need to bounce back. When we return to training on Monday, we have to reset and prepare properly.
“In the second half against Motherwell, we had momentum. We were pushing them back and had a few key moments — one cleared off the line, a couple of shots over the bar. We just needed one of those to fall for us, but it didn’t happen.
“We weren’t good enough to win it, even if I thought we created the better chances. That’s football sometimes. Now we have to move on, focus on the remaining five games, and give everything we have.”
