2024-12-19 22:27:00
Hearts crashed out of the Conference League after a disappointing 2-2 home draw against Moldovan minnows Petrocub cost them the chance of qualifying for the play-offs.
A victory against a Petrocub side who had taken just one point from their previous five matches in the tournament would have been enough to keep Neil Critchley’s side in the top 24 and qualify them for the play-off draw on Friday.
“It is only ourselves who are responsible.”
Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland gives a critical reflection on their defeat to Petrocub which saw their exit from Europe. 🗣️
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But after fighting back from 1-0 down at half-time to lead 2-1 thanks to goals from teenager James Wilson and substitute Blair Spittal, an 83rd-minute Victor Mudrac penalty prevented the Jambos from advancing to the second half. groups. despite winning their first two matches.
“Only ourselves are responsible”
Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland told TNT Sports: “We are only responsible for ourselves.
“They were solid defensively and difficult to break down. The boys sometimes showed good character because it became hostile.
From this (winning) position, we should really win the game. I didn’t feel like the boys weren’t trying or working hard, it was just a lack of quality.
“It hasn’t been there all season, it’s been disappointing.”
Top-of-the-table Chelsea are the only British team still in contention as Welsh side New Saints were also eliminated, losing 3-2 in Slovenia against Celje. Craig Harrison’s team comes out with five defeats in six games.
Northern Irish side Larne were already away before the final night of the league stage, but their first European campaign ended with a historic victory, beating Belgian side Genk 1-0 at Windsor Park.
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