Steven Naismith instantly reacts to Rangers v Hearts semi-final draw in Scottish Cup
Steven Naismith responded instantly to his Hearts side drawing Rangers in the Scottish Cup semi-final, as he insisted they could go all the way.
The Hearts boss shared his view that his side has been competitive against Philippe Clement’s, despite conceding five last time out, and they should provide a tough test.
He also spoke of the hunger within his group of players to win the trophy after losing to Rangers in the semi-final of the Scottish League Cup earlier this season – which Gers went on to win.
Speaking to the Daily Record [12 March], Naismith shared: “We have worked hard all season to get through the rounds to these latter stages.
“We have had a good bit of progression from the last semi-final and we want to progress again in the cup to give ourselves that chance to win it.
“You’ve got to have that demand and hunger to win trophies and we are building that. Hopefully, we can have a good day.
“I think in most of the games against Rangers we have competed well. In the last game, we lost five goals but arguably we were at fault for all five. Rangers didn’t have to do loads.
“We have to use those disappointments to put up a better fight and ultimately get through in the competition. We have got a brilliant group who are demanding and who want to get to the next level individually, but also be successful as a team.”
Scottish Cup semi-final draws Rangers v Hearts
If it was as simple as a repeat of the League Cup semi-final, Rangers would be delighted with that draw, particularly given they have avoided an Old Firm clash against Celtic – for now.
In the most recent clash, Rangers were dominant and several of their players received high praise, including John Souttar who was dominant. The centre-back has now made his way back into the first XI and could look for a repeat performance in the semi-final.
Rangers and Hearts have had their own drama running in the background this season, with star striker Lawrence Shankland having been heavily linked with a move to Ibrox, although nothing materialised, those rumblings are continuing.
There is no doubt that this will be considered a tough draw for both sides, although Clement’s men will take confidence from that 5-0 victory despite Naismith’s fighting talk and perceived desire to overturn their past mistakes.
In other Rangers news, Graeme Souness was wowed by Clement after what he heard.
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