Smith seeks Hearts hat-trick

Dundee manager Barry Smith wants to see his side reproduce their Hearts heroics in Wednesday's Scottish Premier League trip to Tynecastle.

The Dark Blues have enjoyed their best form in a strained season back in the top flight by recording two victories over the Jambos.

They will try to complete a hat-trick of wins in Wednesday's league clash in Edinburgh and Smith believes they are capable of doing so.

"We have had two good results against them so far this season," Smith said. "That should give us confidence as they were both decent performances.

"We know this is a different match at another stage of the season but that still has to be the aim. We shouldn't have any sort of fear going into this match.

"We know what we have to do and we have got to go out there and show that we can get the three points."

"Hearts are a good side as they've just shown by getting to the final of the League Cup. But we have to concentrate on what we do and hopefully come away with another positive result."

Dundee have drawn their last two games against Hibs and Kilmarnock to leave them still 11 points adrift at the foot of the table.

But Smith insists there remains a firm belief within the Dens Park camp that they can bridge that gap and stave off the threat of relegation.

He said: "Nothing has changed on that front. I have faith in this group of players and they know themselves what they are capable of.

"We know there's a bit of a gap but in no way is it outwith our reach to make that up between now and the end of the season.

"As far as we're concerned, we have to take each game at a time and go for the three points."

"It's not going to be easy but we knew all along it was going to be a difficult season for the club."

"However, I've been encouraged by our last performances since coming back from the winter break."

"With a little bit of luck we could have won both games, but we do have to start putting the ball in the back of the net."

"That is the difference at this level and I think we have players who can do that for us."

"Hopefully it starts at Tynecastle because there would be no better time."