Levein makes a strong case for refs to lay off Uche
CRAIG LEVEIN pleaded Uche Ikpeazu’s case for understanding from officials last night, fearing that the sheer power of the new Hearts striker could see him wrongly land in disciplinary trouble.
The burly 6ft 3in forward was left frustrated by a series of decisions that went against him as Hamilton defenders struggled to combat his physique.
Levein praised the 23-yearold for his performance, which included a fine assist for Steven MacLean’s goal, then stressed concern that he may be punished too often this season simply for outmuscling opponents.
Levein said: ‘The problem is that Uche is stronger than everybody else and sometimes he gets penalised for being stronger.
‘It’s hard for the referees because it’s a bit of him holding off opponents and other times, it’s people holding his jersey, or he’s got somebody’s jersey.
‘It’s sometimes hard to work out what’s happening.
‘I’m just hoping that people realise he shouldn’t be penalised for being stronger than other players.
‘It’s like Christophe (Berra) at the other end — and he wins the headers because of that. But Uche’s game is about linking play. He’s okay in the air but he’s better when the ball is on the ground.
‘I told him that I was just as pleased with his performance because he contributed to somebody else scoring, which I think is vital for him. He did a lot of really good things.’
Peter Haring also cut an imposing figure in midfield as Hearts bossed the game from the midway point of the first half. However, the Austrian exhibited two delicate touches with his head and right foot to score two goals.
‘Peter looked a real threat,’ said Levein. ‘We signed him as a centre-back but he has played all the time as an attacking midfielder.
‘You can see why by his second goal, by the composure he showed with all those bodies in front of him to pick out the corner.
‘I love him. He’s so honest and wholehearted in everything he does. He’s a dream, low maintenance.’
Hamilton boss Martin Canning expects to bulk up his own squad with experience at the back in the coming days.
‘We need to add defensively and add experience — that can help our younger boys there,’ said Canning. ‘We just lacked a bit of organisation and calm.’