Mark Kerr wants his players to pack a Boxing Day punch when they pitch up at Tynecastle today.
Ayr head for the capital braced for a backlash after Hearts’ agonising spot-kick defeat in the Scottish Cup final.
But Kerr insists his men should show no fear against Robbie Neilson and his much-fancied Jambos.
He said: “We know the quality Hearts have and they are rightly favourites to win the league.
“They were unlucky not to win the cup on Sunday and they’ll be feeling it.
“But we need to go there and be brave. This is a chance to go and play in a great stadium and show what we can do.
“I loved playing in these types of games and it’s one the boys will relish.”
Kerr needs a quick response from his squad following the disappointing defeat at Arbroath last Saturday.
The manager was left frustrated by the performance which saw Ayr labour in typically tough conditions.
He said: “It wasn’t good enough and we gave ourselves no chance by losing two quick goals.
"Now the players need to step up. We have good creative players who can make chances and we need to show that bit of belief.
“Going to Hearts is a very difficult game as they have quality players all over the park.
“But these are the types of game we tend to do well in – the surface and big pitch will suit us.
“We have to go there and believe in ourselves that we can put in a better performance.
“Sometimes in these types of games the players are keen to prove a point and hopefully that will be the case."
Cammy Smith, who hobbled off with a knock to his foot at Gayfield, should be fit to play.
On-loan Killie striker Innes Cameron should be the only absentee from the squad as he continues his recovery from a knee injury.
United fans can view the game on Hearts' PPV channel, priced £18.50, by clicking HERE
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