We're building momentum

10.03.2013

Gary Locke was delighted with the effort and commitment of his side as the Jambos stretched their unbeaten league record against Hibs to a 13th game with a hard-fought 0-0 draw at Easter Road today.

On a bitterly cold day, snow covered the Easter Road pitch as the two Capital sides fought for supremacy once more.

Despite creating a number of decent chances - mostly through the persistent work of Michael Ngoo up front - Hearts couldn't break the deadlock, and Jamie MacDonald will be pleased with a somewhat fortuitous clean sheet, as a long-range free kick from Leigh Griffiths appeared to cross the line, only for the assistant referee to signal there had been no goal.

"To be fair, I thought it was in from where I was, although it was difficult to see", said Gary after the game at his post-match press conference.

"The referee didn't give it though, and that's all I'm concerned about. Maybe our luck's turning for once."

In a recurring theme from this season's derby matches, despite a great deal of effort and combativeness, neither side could really get a fluid game going, with the windy conditions causing both teams havoc with long balls at times.

"It wasn't a great game", explained Lockie. "The pitch wasn't good, but the work and effort was top class. We had the best of the first half, and should have scored once or twice. The game died down in the 2nd half, and a draw was probably fair."

Hearts had a shout for a penalty in the second half after ex-Jambo Alan Maybury appeared to trip Callum Tapping. Gary was reluctant to be drawn on the matter, simply saying that the referee's decision was final and there was no need to discuss the matter further.

"Someone said that (it may have been a foul) to me, but if the referee hasn't given it, it's not important now."

Hearts World