Super Marius mends Hearts

MARIUS ZALIUKAS believes Hearts' first derby win at Easter Road since 2002 shoots down the theory the squad is riven with factions.

Assistant head coach Stephen Frail and captain Craig Gordon both spoke about divisions between the Scottish and east European players after the 4-0 rout by Dundee United two weeks ago.

But Zaliukas' late winner yesterday gave fourth-placed Hearts a 1-0 victory and moved them eight points above Hibs in the SPL.
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The victory was especially sweet for Jambos fans, who celebrated long after the final whistle and held up the parading of the CIS Cup at the end of Hibs' first game since they beat Kilmarnock 5-1 at Hampden.

Lithuanian Zaliukas said: "We know we have lost the last two games, so it was vital for our league form to win.

"It was nice to be the party spoilers. Before the match everyone spoke about the fact Hearts haven't won here for a long time.

"Obviously with the Hibs cup win as well that was another important thing in our minds.

"We got together in the dressing room and in training and it showed in the result.

"After the Dundee United game many people went away to the national teams, but we had that training camp in Germany as well that helped build up morale and understanding."

Hibs defender Chris Hogg admitted it had been tough to return to the field of play to show off the trophy after the late defeat.

Zaliukas fired home from 12 yards after Hibs keeper Andy McNeil made a weak attempt to palm away a high ball in the 81st minute.

Hogg said: "It was a sore one. You have to put on a brave face, but I'm killing myself inside.

"It's nice, though, for the fans to see the trophy and I commend them for staying after a result like that.

"I know we weren't at our best, but I still think our performance was easily good enough to win the game."

Taken from the Herald