Hearts Head Coach Neil Critchley Discusses 1-1 Draw with Aberdeen

Hearts head coach Neil Critchley shared his thoughts with BBC Scotland, stating, “We started the game very well, the better team, on the front foot, created good moments. The two injuries disrupt us and the flow of the game.” Critchley further explained the challenges faced, noting, “We ended up with a makeshift back four. They score with their first shot. We could feel sorry for ourselves but we showed hunger, desire, passion in the second half. We got the crowd involved and we went for the game.” He concluded his assessment of the match by asserting, “The least we deserved was a point.” Regarding player fitness, Critchley commented on Frankie Kent, saying, “Frankie [Kent] has been outstanding, he’s played every minute for me so far. He’s a leader for us, a great guy in the dressing room. It’s his quad, it looks less serious but you never know. We’ll have to wait and see.” Critchley reflected on the team’s overall performance, stating, “If we keep playing like that, it’s not difficult. I’ve only come in in the last seven weeks and I’ve been really encouraged by our performances. It’s just a snapshot of where we are. You have good spells, bad spells. The league won’t lie at the end of the season.” He expressed optimism for the future, adding, “We’re not even half way through, we’ve got plenty of games to play, the league is quite congested. If we keep showing the same commitment, passion, energy, with more quality at times – and a little bit of luck – things will change in our favour.” Addressing the demanding schedule, Critchley remarked, “I’m used to that [congestion]. Down the road, you play plenty of games in the Championship and League One. That’s why you have a squad – and [Craig] Halks and Musa [Drammeh] are great examples that you need to keep training and be ready.”