Levein: Fans gave new boys Heart attack early on

HEARTS boss Craig Levein insists the fans have made his new-look squad well aware of the high expectations at Tynecastle – after admitting he tried to warn them himself.

Large sections of the 800-strong travelling support made their feelings clear as the Jambos turned in a poor display at Raith on Saturday before winning on penalties after a 1-1 draw.

Seven of the Gorgie outfit’s 13 new summer recruits played.

And Levein reckons that ‘fright’ has made the players realise another disappointing campaign will not be tolerated by himself or the punters.

Tonight’s Betfred Cup clash with Cowdenbeath is a must-win after Hearts were docked two points for fielding an ineligible player against Cove.

And Levein said: “I can tell them we have a demanding set of supporters and it’s not always the easiest club to play for because expectations are high. But it’s better when they experience it and they certainly experienced it at the weekend.

“It doesn’t do any harm sometimes to get a fright – and a few of them have had a fright at the weekend.

“I still think we should have done better than we did. So I’ll make changes for the Cowdenbeath game.”

Former Hearts defender Fraser Mullen hopes his old club wilt under the weight of expectation at Tynecastle. The Blue Brazil right-back said: “All the pressure is on Hearts. We can go there, play our game, stay solid and maybe get a result.”