Hearts win will prove they're over wage row, says Jambos legend Gary Mackay

Oct 19 2008 By Euan McLean

HEARTS legend Gary Mackay insists the Jambos must win today's Edinburgh derby to prove they are over the wages wrangle that hit the club last month.

Csaba Laszlo's men publicly claimed their form was unaffected when they weren't paid due to an apparent technical hitch.

But Mackay reckons it's impossible not to be upset by a financial fright - he went through the same at Airdrieonians when the club went bust.

Gary blasted the "computer hardmen" who flooded internet messageboards with unfounded rumours Hearts are on the verge of administration - and urged the players to get a result that will end this uneasy time.

Speaking at the launch of his autobiography Maroon Heart, Mackay said: "This derby is important because recent events had an effect on Hearts' players.

"Things like that put doubts in your mind and that has been shown in the two performances since then, particularly losing 3-0 at Tannadice.

"I laugh at these computer hardmen who say this or that's going to happen. If you've never been through administration people should be quiet.

"I went through it at Airdrie and there were family guys who took half salaries so we could stick together. That's real life.

"The players have now had a chance to regroup. Hibs are starting with confidence whereas Hearts have maybe lost a bit."

One of the main sources of Hibs' brimming confidence is the return of Derek Riordan after two ill-fated years at Celtic.

But Mackay warned the diehard Hibee's excitement could be his downfall today.

He said: "Channelling the passion properly is so important.

"I was sent off for stamping on Gareth Evans when we were losing 2-1 in Jim Jefferies' first derby at Easter Road. I thought it was Darren Jackson!

"I think Riordanwill be more mature after being at Celtic."

Hearts were reported to be trying to sign Riordan in January but Mackay said: "As an agent I think his representative did a wonderful job!

"He is a top talent but it was never going to happen."