Locke: Must improve in the final third

Gary Locke bemoaned his side's lack of edge in the final third during Sunday's 1-0 opening day defeat to St Johnstone.

The Jambos failed to respond to Steve May's strike midway through the first half, prompting the gaffer to urge his side to regsiter more attempts on goal.

"I know we can certainly play better than that, but it was one of those days where there wasn't a lot of quality on show and we lost a poor goal," Locke said after the game.

"We're certainly going to have to improve in the final third as we didn't create alot of chances. We must do better when we do create openings, and maybe go and have a shot," he continued.

There was controversy surrounding St Johnstone's goal, as the linesman initially flagged for offisde. Following a consultation with referee Steven MacLean, however, the goal was given but Locke was adament he wouldn't dwell on the decision.

"I spoke to the referee, he felt he got it right so I won't complain about that. Over the course of the season some will go against so you and some will go for you.

"We won't feel sorry for ourselves, we've got another cracking game next week and it's one we have to try and pick up points in," he explained.

The Gorgie side were backed by a travelling support of over 3,500 at McDiarmid Park, with maroon colours occupying three out of the four stands. Locke was understandably full of praise for the support afforded to his side and hopes to repay them over the course of the season.

"The fans mean everything, which is why it's really important after the warm- up and after the game, that the players acknowledge them. If it wasn't for them we wouldn't be there, and if we get that backing all season I hope the players can respond in the right way and give them the results they deserve," Locke said.

Hearts World