Findlay's Header Secures Comfortable Win for Hearts

Hearts kicked off their Scottish Premiership campaign in style with a convincing victory over Aberdeen at Tynecastle, capitalizing on their opponents' missed opportunities in a match that showcased their early-season promise.

Match Highlights

The home side weathered early pressure from Aberdeen before breaking the deadlock in dramatic fashion. Harry Milne's dangerous low cross was turned into his own net by Aberdeen captain Graeme Shinnie, marking an unfortunate birthday moment for the veteran midfielder.

Summer signing Stuart Findlay sealed the victory late in the second half, demonstrating excellent positioning to convert another Milne delivery at the far post. This came after Hearts had dominated their Premier Sports Cup group stage with a perfect record, fueling optimism among supporters.

Key Moments

• Milne nearly doubled Hearts' lead with a spectacular long-range effort that rattled the post
• Lawrence Shankland's brilliant curling strike was disallowed by VAR for offside
• Kusini Yengi hit the woodwork for Aberdeen in a rare attacking threat
• Findlay's clinical finish punished Aberdeen's missed opportunities

Season Expectations

The victory comes amid growing excitement following minority ownerTony Bloom's prediction that Hearts have a "very good chance" of finishing second this season. The electric atmosphere at Tynecastle reflected this renewed optimism, with fans believing this could be a breakthrough campaign.

Standout Performers

Harry Milne emerged as a key creative force, contributing to both goals with dangerous deliveries and coming close to scoring himself. Meanwhile, new signing Claudio Braga showed glimpses of why he's generated such excitement among the Hearts faithful since his arrival from Aalesunds.

Post-Match Reactions

Hearts head coach Derek McInnes praised his team's performance: "We got the outcome we wanted. Every manager wants that first win quickly, and I thought we thoroughly deserved it."

Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin acknowledged his team's shortcomings: "We have to do better in 50-50 duels. We knew what to expect today, but it will be different against Celtic."

The result sets an early marker for Hearts' ambitions this season, while Aberdeen will look to bounce back as their campaign gets properly underway.