Don’t dare claim that we were celebrating a draw
boss by comparing the sight of his disappointed Jambos trudging back to their dressing room in frustration with the scenes of the Hibs squad applauding their travelling fans at full-time.
The Hearts head coach reckoned that was proof of the superior mentality within his squad after the first clash of the new season between the Edinburgh foes ended goalless.
But Ross claimed his opposite number read the situation wrong as he insisted all his players did was thank the away support for their vocal backing.
Asked about Neilson’s comments, the Hibs boss said: “I don’t pay attention to what other managers say, to be honest.
“Particularly when the word ‘celebration’ was used. It’s just not true, is it?
“So I don’t concern myself with two things. One, external opinions from other clubs and, two, untruths.
“I think we proven for a long time at this club, the last year and a half in particular, the mentality we’ve got in the group and where we’re trying to get to.
“I think anybody who was in the stadium or who watched the game on television would know that [we were just recognising the fans].
“That’s why [Neilson’s comments] didn’t really concern me.
“Anybody would know there’s a significant difference between a celebration and an acknowledgement or an appreciation. I think that happens up and down the country every single week.
“Even after defeats, we regularly see players acknowledge and appreciate travelling fans and home fans.”
Both sides had chances to win last Sunday’s showdown – only for goalkeepers Craig Gordon and Matt Macey to pull off a string of outstanding saves.
But Neilson suggested earlier this week the green half of the capital were far happier with the result than his side.
“You saw Hibs after the game – they were away celebrating with their fans and it seemed like they were delighted to get a point against us,” he said.