The fans at Tynecastle on Saturday turned in a performance that must have given them hope that last season’s success was anything but easy and that the future looks bright.
The performances from the newcomers on display were exceptional, with James Penrice and Gerald Taylor receiving huge plaudits, and Yan Dhanda gave an idea of what he can bring to the team with some quality deliveries into dangerous areas.
The only disappointment of the day was that a first victory over Rangers in over four years was not guaranteed, but there is plenty of time to pick up the victories needed to ensure Hearts reach the top of the table.
This weekend is a trip to last season’s surprise package, Dundee, who are well managed by Tony Docherty.
The Dens Park club may not have a similar budget to Hearts, but Docherty knows a good player when he sees one, and striker Simon Murray could be one of the best buys of the season.
Hearts stumbled at the start of last season at Dens, losing 1-0, but redeemed themselves in style by winning their next three meetings.
Steven Naismith now has a much stronger squad at his disposal and will be hoping to return to the capital with the first win of the new campaign secured.
