Pollock shines as Hearts’ youth policy bears fruit
The emergence of 17-yearold Finlay Pollock in recent months supplements the excitement for Hearts fans returning to Tynecastle Park.
An attacking midfielder recently graduated from the Riccarton youth academy, Pollock offers energy, bite, plus the potential for goals and assists. A dominant performance on his first senior start in Tuesday night’s Premier Sports Cup win against Cove Rangers showcased much of the above.
Supporters have lamented too many failed Hearts signings in recent years – some earning high salaries on long-term contracts – and are understandably relieved to see a local lad progress. Pollock's midweek display coincided with fans re-entering Tynecastle for the first time since Covid 19 restricted them to livingroom football streaming.
The youngster’s inexperience is an obvious issue. He signed his first professional contract in June and so far has only four competitive appearances to his name – two last season and two this term. Indications are that he harbours the attributes to develop into an asset, but he will need guidance.
Thankfully Hearts are not short in this area. Established midfielders such as Andy Halliday and Peter Haring can help the nurturing process, with others such as Michael
Smith, John Souttar and captain Craig Gordon behind for support.
“I’m delighted for Finlay, he is there on merit. He has trained well and he performed well last season,” said Halliday, who lined up beside young Pollock in central midfield against Cove. “To make his first start, you could see he was full of adrenaline and he showed great composure for someone so young.
“He wasn’t scared to play forward and try the risky pass and he has a bright future. I spoke to him during the game to try to help him. The manager has conveyed a certain message over the last four weeks. It’s important for experienced players to speak to the younger players to make sure we implement it.
“Finlay is young and keen and developing every single day. He will sometimes need help with his positional sense on the pitch but that’s what older players do.
" He did well but that's just the start for him.”
Only a Cove Rangers post prevented Pollock marking a memorable evening with a goal on 19 minutes. The move illustrated many of the teenager’s talents as he fed Josh Ginnelly, advanced into the opposition penalty area to collect the winger’s low cutback, and then dispatched a shot against the goal frame.
“He almost scored but I wasn’t too happy he never cut it back to me,” laughed Halliday.
“No, seriously, he was unlucky. He took a great touch to take it away from the defender and he got off a great strike that unfortunately hit the post. He made a positive impact.
“We have all been there as young players. You can get caught up in the moment, you are eager to impress and you lose your shape.
"I probably did it as well because it’s been so long since we played in front of fans. It was easy to get carried away. I thought he coped really well, as did all the boys.”