Gaffer wants concentration

02.09.2012

Hearts boss John McGlynn shared his disappointment as his team suffered a post-European hangover by slumping to a 1-0 defeat to newly promoted Dundee today at Tynecastle.

A 2nd minute penalty from Ryan Conroy gave the Dark Blues their first goal and win in the 2012/13 Clydesdale Bank Premier League campaign, while John Sutton had a similar chance to convert from the spot but his effort was superbly saved by Robert Douglas.

Speaking after the defeat, John brushed aside any suggestions that the result was down to tiredness from Thursday's heroic 1-1 draw at Anfield against Liverpool - who lost at home to Arsenal today - and instead put the defeat down to poor finishing and a lack of guile and composure.

"We had plenty of chances and should have won. Nothing to do with Europe. We wanted to come out of the traps flying and we gave them the biggest lift we could have by gifting them a goal a minute into the game."

"For two games against Liverpool we have immaculate concentration and then against Dundee we don't pay a second of attention. It's an awkward situation, they've got a boost from us missing the penalty."

New signing Ryan Stevenson made his second debut after replacing Sutton at the half time interval, with the new man coming closest with a stinging drive saved by Douglas, then a header cleared off the line. Despite mixing it up tactically, though, John's efforts were in vain.

"We tried to change it by putting on Stevenson but we just lacked composure. We played the whole game in their half and they've ended up defending very well. You'd hope over the season that our luck will change."

One player who was warmly received by the Tynecastle faithful was Ryan McGowan, the Aussie stopper given a hero's welcome after turning down the lure of Third Division Rangers on Friday evening, despite the lower league side luring ex-teammate David Templeton. John shared his happiness at retaining Gowser and his wish that he could be signed up on a new deal.

"We're delighted Ryan stayed. Hopefully he'll sign a new deal. He's the sort of player you want, he's got a great attitude and he's a top defender. Hopefully we'll sign him up and get him on a longer deal. He phoned me for advice before he spoke to Rangers, and I gave him my thoughts, which will remain private."

Hearts World