Robbie Neilson says Hearts have to stay top of the league as he explains Liam Boyce absence at Morton

Robbie Neilson praised two-goal Jamie Walker and midfielder Andy Irving for helping Hearts back to the top of the Scottish Championship.
Robbie Neilson congratulates Hearts defender Michael Smith at full-time.Robbie Neilson congratulates Hearts defender Michael Smith at full-time.
Robbie Neilson congratulates Hearts defender Michael Smith at full-time.

Walker’s two goals at Cappielow were complemented by Irving’s passing during a controlled performance by the visitors.

“I’m delighted. We couldn’t put the ball in the net at Alloa last week but today we did it twice. We could have scored more as well,” said manager Neilson. “We have to take care of Queen of the South next week at home and then start gearing up for the Scottish Cup final.

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“Top is where we want to be and we want to stay there. I feel we’ve had a really good start to the season. We’ve won five out of six, we’re sitting on 15 points and we’re top of the league. It’s important we stay there.

“Jamie started the season well and then had a niggle so now he is getting his fitness back. Naismith and Walker in those attacking positions gives us real quality.”

Irving’s exquisite crossfield pass created Walker’s second goal. “He’s got great passing ability and you saw that with the pass for the goal,” added Neilson.

“He’s still learning but I was really pleased with him. We knew what the pitch and the physicality would be like here but I thought Andy handled it really well.”

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Striker Liam Boyce was an unused substitute due to a hamstring issue. “He didn’t train Thursday or Friday because of a hamstring. I was going to put him on at the end but he didn’t feel quite right. He should be fine for next week,” said Neilson.

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