Paul takes Hart from defeat at Tynecastle

DUNDEE manager Paul Hartley is convinced that his side can beat the drop, especially if they perform like they did in Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Hearts.

The Dens Park club lost their sixth consecutive Ladbrokes Premiership match at Tynecastle and remain just a point clear of Motherwell in the relegation play-off zone.

Isma Goncalves’ 13th-minute strike was enough to see off the Tayside club, although Dundee hit the post through Tom Hateley before substitute Craig Wighton wasted a great chance after the break.

Despite leaving his old club empty-handed, Hartley insists his team can draw positives ahead of next weekend’s crucial visit of Hamilton, who are ahead of the Steelmen on goal difference.

Hartley said: “What I will say about the players is that they matched Hearts. Yes, Hearts had a lot of possession but the difference was they took their chance and we didn’t.

“We had a great opportunity with Craig and that’s what happens when things are not going your way.

“Our plan was to come and frustrate the supporters here and to stay in the game, and we did.

“Coming here is a difficult venue at any stage. Our run of form has not been great but we always stayed in the game.

“If they perform like that for the next six games we’ll be fine. This game has gone for me and it’s all about next week.”

Goncalves scored his fifth goal since joining in January after rounding goalkeeper Scott Bain to from a tight angle.

While the pressure remains on Hartley following a woeful run of results, Hearts head coach Ian Cathro has given himself some much needed breathing space following a run of three straight losses.

Cathro has presided over six wins in 20 matches since replacing Robbie Neilson in December.

Cathro said: “We all know how important it is to build on this.

“We’re pleased to have dealt with Saturday but we’ll move on immediately.

“We have to make sure this isn’t another false start. It’s time to go.”

FOR Liam Henderson, attempting to navigate the pathway to regular first-team football at Celtic is as troublesome as trying to manoeuvre around the new Raith Interchange using a Greek sat-nav.

The young midfielder was in the fast lane to success during his loan stint at Hibs last season. First name on the team-sheet under Alan Stubbs,