Giles taking it in his stride

15 Mar 1996

THE Edinburgh derby may have passion running high in the capital tomorrow, but not for Giles Rousset.

In fact, the Hearts keeper dismisses the match as: "no more important than any other." The Frenchman will have the maroon half of the city's hopes resting on his shoulders as he aims to put the shutters up against Hibs at Tynecastle.

But with the prospect of a lucrative European place on the horizon, Rousset reckons there will still be work to do, no matter the result tomorrow.

"I'm very much looking forward to the game," said Rousset, "because it's important for everyone at both clubs.

However, every game at this stage of the season carries importance and there are seven matches to go after this one.

"We have a chance of making it into Europe through our league placing, and there's still a lot of points to play for between now and May." The keeper has appeared in two Edinburgh derbies so far, with one win and one defeat on his record.

But, despite his calm approach, Rousset admits he will feel the tension at Tynecastle.

"The stadium will be full to the brim and the atmosphere is going to be terrific," he said.

"All games in the Scottish League have plenty of passion and a derby game has even more than usual.

"There is a special feeling when you play in matches such as these and it will be enjoyable.

"I think it will be a close affair.

Hibs had some problems around the turn of the year, but things are coming together for them now.

They are playing better and, like our team, will be doing all they can to win for their supporters."

Taken from the Herald