Heart of Midlothian goalkeeper Craig Gordon has expressed his frustration after another disappointing result saw the Scottish club crash out of the Europa League. A 2-0 aggregate defeat to Viktoria Plzeň, sealed by a 1-0 loss at Tynecastle, marked Hearts’ fifth consecutive defeat in all competitions. Gordon lamented the “crazy” mistakes that have plagued his side, admitting that Hearts are “beating ourselves” with unforced errors and poor decision-making.
A Disheartening Exit
Already trailing 1-0 from the first leg in the Czech Republic, Hearts faced an uphill battle to turn the tie around at home. The need for a fast start was evident, yet Hearts struggled to find their rhythm in a first half that reflected their recent form. Despite being backed by a fervent crowd at Tynecastle, the team looked hesitant, with few clear-cut chances created.
As the match between Hearts vs Viktoria Plzeň wore on, there were glimpses of improvement. Manager Steven Naismith made positive changes in the second half, injecting some much-needed urgency into the team’s play. For a brief period, it seemed that Hearts might finally break through, with forward Liam Boyce and winger Barrie McKay threatening the Plzeň defense. The home crowd, sensing a possible comeback, grew louder, urging their team on.
However, just as Hearts were starting to build momentum, Viktoria Plzeň delivered a crushing blow. In the 67th minute, a well-worked move from the visitors ended with Lukas Cerv calmly slotting the ball home from the edge of the box. The goal silenced the rising noise at Tynecastle and effectively ended Hearts’ hopes of progressing in the competition. The aggregate scoreline of 2-0 in favor of Plzeň sent the Czech side through, leaving Hearts to reflect on what might have been.
Gordon’s Frustration through Match
Craig Gordon, one of Hearts’ most experienced players, did not hold back in his assessment of the team’s performance. Speaking after the match, the 40-year-old goalkeeper expressed his frustration at the mistakes that have become all too common in recent weeks.
“We’re beating ourselves,” Gordon said bluntly. “The errors we’re making are crazy at this level. You can’t afford to switch off or make poor decisions in these types of games, and unfortunately, that’s exactly what we’ve done. It’s cost us dearly.”
A Season of Struggles
The defeat to Viktoria Plzeň is the latest setback in what has been a challenging season for Hearts. After a promising start to the campaign, the team has now lost five consecutive matches, leaving them struggling for form and confidence. Their exit from the Europa League is a significant blow, especially after the club had worked hard to qualify for the competition.
Manager Steven Naismith, who took over the reins at Tynecastle this season, now faces the daunting task of turning things around. While Hearts will drop into the UEFA Conference League, a competition considered a step down from the Europa League, it could provide the team with a chance to rebuild and regain some form.
Naismith acknowledged the difficulties but remained hopeful for the future. “It’s been a rough run, no doubt about it,” he said. “But we need to learn from these situations and come back stronger. The Conference League gives us another opportunity, and we have to make the most of it.”
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