Hearts have experienced a challenging start to the season, exiting the Champions League qualifiers after a 6-0 aggregate defeat to Sturm Graz. This early setback has led to concerns among some fans and former players regarding the team’s current form and readiness for the upcoming domestic campaign.
The club, which came close to a title win at Celtic Park just 73 days prior, has seen significant changes this summer. Departures include Lawrence Shankland and Cammy Devlin, alongside other players and the previous manager. Hearts have brought in 11 new additions, and the team appeared disjointed in both legs against their Austrian opponents.
Former Hearts forward Ryan Stevenson described the situation as “worrying” and a “rude awakening” for new boss Wouter Vrancken. He noted a lack of connection between the players and fans, suggesting the new squad looks “flung in together.” Stevenson also highlighted the pressure at Tynecastle, questioning if the new players have the character to handle potential fan discontent if results do not improve by mid-September.
Early Season Struggles and Fan Reaction
Despite conceding six goals, Hearts showed moments of attacking promise but lacked a clinical finish, failing to score from a combined expected goals value of 2.6. The defeat marked Hearts‘ first home loss in 15 months, leading to a sense of unease among supporters, with many leaving before the final whistle. The team was assembled with the help of recruitment tool Jamestown Analytics, and fans had higher expectations.
Vrancken acknowledged that the games came too soon physically for his players, stating, “When you see both games again, what we did with the ball was really good until the moment that you physically cannot bring it any more and that made it difficult.” He emphasised the need for physical improvement, noting that nine of the starters in the first leg and eight in the second leg were with the club last season. He also expressed hope that “everybody starts scoring,” regardless of who finds the net.
Fan sentiment reflects this concern. Scott, a supporter, noted the team’s inability to defend and score, suggesting a “long season ahead” and acknowledging that a new manager and several new players need time to adjust. Ian expressed worry about Vrancken‘s assessment of the first half against Sturm Graz, fearing the team would fall short of a third-place finish. Chris echoed these concerns, describing the team as “flustered, disorganised, can’t defend and can’t score,” and predicted a domestic defeat if current performance levels continue. Calum highlighted the fundamental improvements needed, especially given Hearts‘ poor record at Aberdeen.
The team’s Scottish Premiership duties are set to begin with a trip to Aberdeen on Saturday evening. Hearts have a challenging record at Aberdeen, having lost 10 of their past 11 league visits. Stevenson voiced genuine worry about the upcoming match, predicting a “rude awakening” for the new players.
Looking Ahead to Domestic Competition
Despite the early turmoil, Vrancken maintained an optimistic outlook. He stated, “We have to go step by step again, but we can’t wait until we’re physically top to start getting results.” He stressed the importance of taking results and finishing chances in games. The manager had previously expressed a desire for a “magical and historical Tynecastle Park night” during the second leg against Sturm Graz, urging his players to give their all despite being four goals behind.
Vrancken also highlighted the need for increased efficiency, particularly in the offensive box. He noted that despite being behind at half-time in the first leg, the team’s performance with the ball was “incredible” in the first half. He hopes to see improvements in both defensive and offensive areas. The team’s domestic season begins with the match against Aberdeen, where a strong performance is seen as crucial to set the tone for the season.
The club still has opportunities for Europa League or Conference League football, offering a chance to compete for European honours. However, the immediate focus is on improving performance and securing results in the domestic league. Vrancken‘s press conference ahead of the Sturm Graz match is available on Hearts TV.
Source: bbc.co.uk
Dominic Hayes is the Sports News Writer at NewsGB, covering rugby union, golf and boxing with five years of reporting experience. He started on a north-east sports desk. He holds a degree in Journalism from Teesside University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Middlesbrough, he follows pro golf and amateur boxing. “Fast and accurate is the only standard worth keeping.”
