Robbie Neilson refused to blame the Hearts players that missed their Scottish Cup final penalties and insisted he was proud that they showed the ‘bollocks’ to step up.
After an incredible fight back, the Tynecastle team had the chance to end Celtic ’s relentless trophy run from the penalty spot at Hampden following a breathless 3-3 draw after extra-time.
And it looked like they were about to do just that when Craig Gordon saved The Hoops’ third spot kick from Ryan Christie,
However, Stephen Kinglsey and Craig Wighton had their attempts thwarted by rookie ‘keeper Conor Hazard, which allowed Kris Ajer to smash home the decisive pen.
But Neilson refused to criticise his distraught duo and hailed their bravery for assuming the responsibility after intensive practice during the week.
“They are hurting and are disappointed,” he said. “They will feel it more and that is only natural.
“I have spoken to the boys already and the most important thing for me is that they stepped forward to take the penalties.
“If you have the bollocks to take a penalty in the Scottish Cup then that is all the matters to me.”
Kingsley contribution to Hearts’ comeback during the game was vital, heading home their first equaliser before teeing up Josh Ginnelly to make it 3-3.
Wighton replaced the injured Liam Boyce and caused Celtic problems, but couldn’t cap his display with a successful spot kick.
“We trained during the week and did quite a number of penalty kicks and did it agai on Friday,” Neilson explained.
“You just ask the players to be brave, go up and strike it and make sure you hit the target.
“They all hit the target and they all hit it well but the goalie guessed right on two of them and we didn’t score the goals.
“The biggest thing for me is to have the strength to go and take one and the five guys did that.”
