Locke: "We were flat today"

Hearts manager Gary Locke was extremely disappointed as his side fell to a 2-1 defeat at home to Hibs, despite leading at half-time.

Darren Barr's first goal since last season's Scottish Cup Final had given the Jambos a half-time lead before two superb goals from Leigh Griffiths and Ross Caldwell gave the Hibees the win.

Speaking after the game, a disconsolate Gary revealed his disappointment in his side as they failed to hold on to their lead.

"The players were really flat today", he explained. "We've been getting plaudits for how we've done lately, but we didn't get going. The preparation was the same.

"Hibs played at a tempo that we wanted, but couldn't match it. In a derby game, you've got to win individual battles but we lost too many.

"We probably didn't deserve to lead at half time, and we tried to stress that we needed to win second balls, then we gave away a sloppy free kick and you can't allow a player like Griffiths a free shot at goal."

Looking ahead, Gary revealed he was keen to see the season come to an end, and try to strengthen his tired squad after a long, difficult season.

"We'll look to the summer now, and try to get some new players in, and try to improve from this season," he said.

Hearts World