Europa League 3rd Qualifying Round 2nd leg - Tynecastle
After another traumatic week when Hearts dismissed manager Jim Jefferies and assistant Billy Brown - and appointed Paulo Sergio as manager - the Maroons managed to secure a place in the play-off round for the Europa League with a convincing win over Hungarian side Paks.
A cracking atmosphere helped Hearts achieve their objective and although the home side dominated proceedings, it wasn't entirely one-way traffic with the Hungarians dangerous on the counter-attack. For the opening half hour, Hearts struggled to break down Paks defence and there were a couple of worrying lapses from the home defenders. However, Ryan Stevenson's header gave the home side the lead after 34 minutes although the visiting goalkeeper didn't look too clever. Stevenson added a second goal right on half time.
The return of Andrew Driver was a welcome sight and the winger scored Hearts third goal five minutes into the second half. While Paks forced a couple of fine saves from Marian Kello, the third goal killed the tie and the goal machine that is Rudi Skacel added a fourth after a brilliant effort from David Templeton was only parried by the keeper.
Bode scored a late consolation for Paks but Hearts progressed to the next round on a 5-2 aggregate. Lying in wait - Tottenham Hotspur who visit Tynecastle on 18 August. It promises to be a night to remember!
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