CUP MEANS MORE THAN EURO SLOT

HEARTS hero Robbie Neilson insists winning the Scottish Cup is bigger than sealing a Champions League spot - because you can't put memories on a mantelpiece.

The right-back (left) lapped up a night of glory with his team-mates on Wednesday as they sealed second spot ahead of Rangers.

The Jambos are odds-on to beat Second Division champs Gretna on Saturday at Hampden and Neilson admitted: "It has been fantastic winning second but I'd rather have a medal in the bag.

"We haven't had a minute to think about the cup final yet because there's been so much pressure on us to get the job done in the league.

"But now that's done the cup becomes the most important thing. I suppose it's easy to say this now we HAVE qualified for the Champions League but looking back when you're older winners' medals in your cabinet is what you want."

Given the ecstasy pouring from the Tynecastle stands on Wednesday night it was hard to believe Hearts had not won anything.

Owner Vladimir Romanov danced on the front ledge of the stand, the players took a lap of honour and the fans partied on into the night. And Neilson laughed: "If that's what we get for second imagine what it'll be like if we win it!

"Hopefully that's something we can find out next season.

"That's what was slightly weird about the celebrations on Wednesday, though, that they were 'only' for second.

"The fans are delighted and that's the main thing - but hopefully we can win the cup for them and have a trophy to show for the season. We didn't fancy going to Ibrox to get even a point so we were delighted to get the job done on Wednesday.

"All credit to Rangers for keeping the pressure on right to the end but we showed some character to pull through.

"It's the least we deserve after a fantastic season."

Neilson has his sights set on the Champions League - and a new chapter in a story of resilience from the 25-year-old. Every season he has been expected to make way for a bigger name yet he has fought off every challenger for his shirt.

And he said: "Only three years ago I was out on loan at Queen of the South and now I'm heading for the Champions League.

"But I'll just keep fighting away and working hard because I'm sure there will be more bodies arriving next season.

"Getting in the team is one thing - staying there is another."

Taken from the Sunday Mail