The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
Murrayfield behind Jambos as they prepare for derby day
Hearts striker Steven MacLean expects no problems shaking off their Murrayfield disappointment when they host another major football occasion in Edinburgh tomorrow.
The Ladbrokes Premiership leaders could not rise to the challenge on Sunday as they lost 3-0 to Celtic in the Betfred Cup semi-finals.
Steven Naismith, Clevid Dikamona and Peter Haring are all struggling with injury in the wake of the defeat to add to the long-term absences of Christophe Berra, John Souttar and Uche Ikpeazu.
But Hearts have no time to feel sorry for themselves with city rivals Hibernian visiting Tynecastle tomorrow.
And former St Johnstone striker MacLean is determined to get over the cup loss quickly and consolidate their lead at the top of the table.
“We have a massive derby on Wednesday and it’s a great game to play in,” the 36-year-old said.
“I’ve not played in one yet so I am looking forward to it and I’m sure the rest of the lads will be.
“It’s a great opportunity for us – we are eight points ahead of Hibs and could go 11 points clear.
“If you can’t get up for those games then you shouldn’t be playing football.
“It will be brilliant, but it will only be brilliant if you win.
“I am really looking forward to the atmosphere.
“I have played in a few derbies in my time so I am looking forward to this one.”
Meanwhile Jambos goalkeeper Zdenek Zlamal has apologised after his semi-final blunder.
He fumbled a tame Ryan Christie effort and could only scramble the ball straight to James Forrest, who slotted home.
The goal effectively killed off the contest and Christie added a spectacular goal to complete a 3-0 triumph at BT Murrayfield.
Zlamal said: “The second goal was mine. I think Michael Smith touched it a little bit but I have to catch it. I have to say sorry to all fans and to everybody.
“We are very disappointed. We felt that we had a big chance to be in the final, but to be honest Celtic were better.”