WALLACE WANTS TO ERASE CUP WOE

By Chris Roberts, PA Sport

Kilmarnock 3 Hibernian 1

Young Hearts defender Lee Wallace is desperate to get the nod against Gretna in the Tennent's Scottish Cup final on Saturday to ease the pain of his Youth Cup heartache.

The 18-year-old was more than happy to swap first-team duties for the under-19s against Celtic at Parkhead but his presence could not prevent the trophy staying in Glasgow as the Hoops completed the double with a 3-1 extra-time win.

The appearance of Wallace and Calum Elliot would suggest they will not start at Hampden Park but the Hearts full-back hopes he has not played his last club game this season.

"I had no problem coming back down to the under-19s," he told PA Sport.

"I would help any Hearts team to win a cup, especially when it's against Celtic at Parkhead.

"It was disappointing to lose out the way we did but now I

don't have a clue if I will be involved on Saturday.

"It could mean I will be involved and I hope to feature. Even if I'm not involved I want Hearts to win and I have loved being a part of the first team this season.

"It would be a disappointing way to finish the season so I hope I can play some part in a victory on Saturday.

"It was a big week for the club with the two finals and I hope I get the chance to make up for this defeat.

"I can't see why the younger ones can't win this next season and the first team can win the Scottish Cup."

Wallace revealed that the comforting words of club captain Steven Pressley lifted the kids from the doldrums.

Hearts were the better team against the under-19 league champions but lost out in tough circumstances.

Wallace added: "Everybody is disappointed because we were by far the better team.

"They took their chances but Elvis came in and spoke about looking ahead and development.

"Our 11 were by far better than their 11. We performed better and he told us to keep our heads up.

"Elvis and (coach) Stephen Frail said pick ourselves up. Everyone is disappointed but that's football.

"That's just the kind of person Elvis is. He is a leader on and off the pitch and he is always been like that. He is an inspiration and his words really meant so much to us.

"He gave us a lift when we were sat there with our heads down. He helped everyone with his words."

Hearts are in the Champions League next season and Wallace believes more of the youth team can follow him, Elliot and Andrew Driver in making the step up to the senior squad.

He added: "A few of us have been involved in the first team and if we can get this far, with the progression we have made, then I can see no reason why we can't be knocking on the door.

"There are a lot of good players in this team that can make a real impact here next season."