Wouter Vrancken urges Hearts to stay focused for Cup tie

Hearts head coach Wouter Vrancken has called on his team to "rise above the emotions" and avoid excuses ahead of Friday’s Premier Sports Cup quarter-final away to Stenhousemuir. Despite being heavy favourites, Vrancken is wary of the test awaiting his squad on the artificial surface at Ochilview.

"Excuses are for losers," Vrancken said, stressing that his players must approach the game with the same level of focus they demonstrated during recent high-profile matches. "You have to prepare yourself and you have to be ready. You have to cope with those things and be above. You are the favourites playing against the underdogs, and this is a totally different situation than playing Benfica."

The manager added that the tie is a 90-minute challenge, warning his players against the temptation to rush for an early goal. For Hearts, this match marks the beginning of a demanding run, with upcoming away trips to Falkirk and Kilmarnock. Vrancken noted that managing player fatigue is a priority as the club balances domestic commitments with the upcoming league phase of the Conference League.

Stenhousemuir boss Marvin Bartley, who remains unbeaten in 10 games, says his side has clarity in their approach. Midfielder Lewis O'Donnell added that Bartley’s tactical freedom allows the squad to express themselves creatively in the final third, providing the Warriors with confidence ahead of the visit from the Premiership side.