Hearts V Hibernian at Tynecastle Stadium : Match Preview

16 August 2014 13:01
Hearts V Hibernian - view commentary, squad, and statistics of the game live.


Hollis set for Edinburgh derby bow

Hearts have signed former Motherwell goalkeeper Lee Hollis on a short-term deal ahead of the Edinburgh derby.

Scott Gallacher was set for his Hearts debut against Hibernian after Neil Alexander suffered a fractured cheekbone in the opening-day win against Rangers, but he twisted an ankle in training and is now a doubt.

Another keeper, Jack Hamilton, was recalled from a loan spell at Stenhousemuir while Jamie Walker returns from suspension.

Callum Paterson (knee) remains out and Soufian El Hassnaoui (groin) is unlikely to be fit enough to feature while midfielder Scott Robinson is halfway through a three-match ban.

Head coach Robbie Neilson said ahead of Sunday's derby at Tynecastle: "Anytime you get a victory is great, for the confidence of the team and also for the fans, for the prestige of the city and for going into their work the next day and to have the bragging rights is great.It's important we try and repay the fans by giving them that.

"Over the last year to 18 months it's been a very difficult period for them and they've backed us every step of the way. It's important that we put on a performance on Sunday that shows that."

Hibernian winger Daniel Handling returns for the Edinburgh derby.

Handling missed Hibs' Scottish Championship opener against Livingston through suspension following his red card against Rangers.

Head coach Alan Stubbs said: " From a supporter point of view, derbies are the be-all and end-all. That's how important it is.

"The players know that and understand that."


Source: PA