Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Kingsley’s heart set on more happy memories
STEPHEN Kingsley admits Hampden was the scene of one the best moments in his career.
And the Hearts defender would love to add another highlight by helping Steven Naismith’s side overcome Rangers in Sunday’s Scottish Cup semi-final.
Kingsley netted a stunning freekick in the last-four victory over rivals Hibs just over two years ago.
After exchanging passes with Liam Boyce in a clever set-piece routine, the 29-year-old found the top corner with a decisive strike in the 2-1 victory.
Hearts ended up losing the final 2-0 to Rangers but the experienced former Swansea City and Hull player admits his semi-final contribution is one he looks back on fondly.
He said: “There was a lot that led up to that, it was a massive moment.
“There was elation, you can see it on my own and everyone’s face. There was pride, there was a lot going on before that, a lot happened in the year prior to that.
“It was Covid before that, a lot had happened in my career and personal life.
“We had a good successful season and to tip it off with reaching a final in that moment there was a lot of emotion.
“When the ball hit the back of the net, it’s hard to remember now and it’s a bit of a blur but I just remember the noise of it, looking and seeing everyone celebrating and enjoying themselves.
“It’s pretty hard to beat and probably one of the most special moments in my career.”
Kingsley admits the free-kick routine had been worked on in the build-up to the Hibs game, but only with team-mate Barrie McKay.
He added: “It’s something we talked about during the week but it was probably more on Barrie’s side on the left.
“We had been working on it where he would lay it off to Boycie and get it back and find the far corner.
“We never really worked on it for my side, it was just one of those things if it comes to it we’ll see what happens.
“I think pretty much as soon as it left my foot I had a good idea it was going in.”
Kingsley also played in the delayed 2020 Scottish Cup final shootout defeat to Celtic and would love to make it third time lucky at the national stadium.
The 29-year-old added: “I’ve been lucky enough to experience a couple here now at this club.
“I’ve only been here four years and I feel very lucky to be involved in this experience to get to so many semi-finals and finals.
“It would be a massive achievement if we can get to another one.”
Meanwhile, generous Hearts supporters have donated more than £20,000 to the club’s charity partner to allow more fans to go to Hampden.
The Big Hearts Community Trust launched an initiative to provide tickets for Sunday’s Scottish Cup semi-final against Rangers for those who would not normally get the chance.
And Hearts fans have dug deep to ensure hundreds of tickets will be given away.