Hearts Football Club finally clinched their first win of the season, much to the delight of interim boss Liam Fox. The team secured a hard-fought victory against Dinamo Minsk in Azerbaijan, with Yan Dhanda scoring a crucial goal in added time. This win marked Hearts’ first competitive victory in almost five months, breaking a streak of ten winless matches.
The Edinburgh side had not tasted success since their previous win against Dundee on May 11 in the last season. The match against Dinamo Minsk saw Stephen Alfred giving Minsk the lead in the 20th minute, followed by an own goal that levelled the score before halftime. Lawrence Shankland had opportunities to secure the win before captain Jorge Grant assisted Dhanda’s winning goal in the dying moments of the game.
In a match held behind closed doors in neutral territory due to Belarus’ involvement in Ukraine, Fox praised the resilience and determination shown by the Hearts players. He commended their ability to grind out a victory in a challenging game, highlighting the importance of securing a win even in tough circumstances.
Reflecting on the match, Fox expressed his happiness for the players, acknowledging the long wait they had endured for a victory. He also mentioned the lack of fans in the stadium, creating a strange atmosphere for the players. Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, Fox emphasised the significance of the win and the players’ commendable attitude throughout the game.
Fox singled out Dhanda for his match-winning goal, praising the midfielder’s dedication and positive attitude despite limited playing time since joining Hearts. Dhanda’s goal not only secured the team’s victory but also showcased his talent and commitment to the club.
Overall, the win was a significant moment for Hearts as they kick-started their season with a hard-earned victory. Fox’s leadership, along with the players’ determination and teamwork, culminated in a well-deserved result that brought joy to both the team and their supporters.