Following the explosive drama of a 3-2 Edinburgh derby defeat to Hibernian, the stark reality for Heart of Midlothian is now crystal clear. Manager Derek McInnes alluded to it in his post-match analysis, but the message from the Tynecastle dressing room must be unequivocal: nine points from their next three league games is an absolute necessity.
A Critical Run to Restore Confidence
The first hour at Easter Road was an alarming aberration in an otherwise excellent campaign for Hearts. Defensive malfunctions led to a disastrous start, with Hibs' Jamie McGrath, Josh Campbell, and Kieron Bowie capitalising on poor defending to establish a 3-0 lead. Although a brave late fightback featuring goals from captain Lawrence Shankland and Cammy Devlin brought the score to 3-2, and only a stunning save from Hibs keeper Raphael Sallinger denied Shankland an equaliser, the damage was done.
To banish the memory of that performance, Hearts must now dominate a favourable run of fixtures. They host Livingston, travel to Dundee, and then welcome St Mirren to Gorgie. With Livingston and Dundee struggling at the foot of the table, maximum points is the only acceptable return. St Mirren will pose a sterner test, but victory at Tynecastle is essential for any team with genuine title aspirations.
January Reinforcements and the Celtic Showdown
Securing three wins would achieve more than just repairing morale; it would almost certainly ensure Hearts remain top of the Scottish Premiership when Celtic visit Tynecastle on January 25. That date is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in the season.
McInnes is actively strengthening his squad to prepare for that challenge. Kazakh winger Islam Chesnokov is expected to arrive this week, with the manager confident the 26-year-old can make an immediate impact. His addition, along with the promising Alexandros Kyziridis on the left, could give Hearts a formidable attacking edge.
Defensive reinforcements are also a priority after the shortcomings shown against Hibs. A deal worth around £500,000 for RKC Waalwijk right-back Jordi Altena is understood to be close. The 22-year-old Dutchman, who has contributed four goals and eight assists this term, has been identified as a solution to the problematic right side of Hearts' defence.
Lessons from Leith and the Road Ahead
McInnes did not hide his disappointment at his team's failure to execute the basics in the derby. The third Hibs goal, stemming from a Stuart Findlay clearance rebounding off Josh Mulligan to Bowie, was particularly shambolic. The late rally demonstrated a commendable spirit, but it must be married with defensive discipline from the first whistle.
For Hibs, the victory provides a platform to build their own season. While not title contenders, they proved they can significantly influence the race. As Motherwell demonstrated in almost tripping up Rangers, the league is full of potential twists.
For Hearts, however, the path is straightforward. The despair of the first hour at Easter Road must serve as a catalyst. Winning must become a habit again, ensuring they face Celtic with a lead to defend and momentum firmly restored. The next three games are not just about points; they are about proving their title mettle.
