David Marshall has cautioned supporters against pressing clubs to limit away supporters for the biggest game on the fixture card in order to preserve the unique Edinburgh derby atmosphere. After finding himself squarely in the firing line during Wednesday night’s 1-1 draw at Tynecastle, the former Scotland goaltender made a statement.
Marshall watched a barrage of objects, including a metal corkscrew bottle opener, fly over his head as some in the away support targeted Lawrence Shankland during the delay before the Hearts striker equalised from the penalty spot. This was in a match that also saw Hibs playmaker Emi Marcondes hit with missiles while taking a corner. The former Celtic goalie thinks that the possibility of injury may compel big clubs to follow the Old Firm’s example and reduce attendance or maybe outright ban bettors.
Marshall stated: “What happened is not acceptable to either club.” A few of the objects thrown might seriously hurt someone.
It ruined the pleasant vibe that existed there. The athletes adore having fun there. The Edinburgh derby is a significant event that creates a unique atmosphere because both sets of fans gather in greater numbers than the Old Firm. It’s both good and unfriendly.
However, something was done on Wednesday that crossed a line. It’s challenging to control. The fact that people are throwing stuff on Hearts or the stewards is not their fault.
“Luckily, nobody was hurt. We really hope that such things can stop because the last thing we want is for the atmosphere and fan turnout to be impacted in any way.
Hibs outplayed their local rivals on the pitch and generated enough opportunities to win. The performance felt like a step in the right direction, regardless of the outcome.
Marshall says, “I’m not so sure it was a statement,” maintaining his caution. But with the boys we brought in January, we are in a better situation. While it would have been great to have them in for the training camp, it was still crucial to arrive a little later and make sure they had enough minutes.
“I wasn’t shocked by Tynecastle’s performance. The team is getting fitter and appears to be stronger than it has in a long time. However, it was satisfying to enter a major game and play that well.
“We were aware that a minimum of four points had to be gained between Aberdeen and Dundee. That’s what we did. And we’re likely in for a similar week.
“We performed admirably in the matchup with Hearts. That was a huge advantage for us, and I think everyone can agree that, given the opportunities we produced, we should have won the game on balance. Being able to compete so well in a derby is encouraging.
Marshall, who is out of contract in the summer, stated that he will wait to decide on his future until the end of the season, adding, “The club needs to get the recruitment side right.” The manager’s first summer window is approaching in a wide window.
“I get along well with him and the employees. We must concentrate on the upcoming games, evaluate the situation in the summer, and monitor its progress. You never know.
Regardless of how much time Marshall has left in goal for Hibs, the indisputable number one knows exactly what he wants to do when he eventually steps down, stating: “Well, being at this club the cups are huge.” Pictures of David Grey scoring the game-winning goal in the 2016 Scottish Cup final are all over this place.
And Hibs is a big deal, as everybody who joins the team understands. Naturally, we have a very difficult draw against Rangers at home in the next round. However, every player in this room wants to win a cup.
“I believe that going forward, as a club, we should be regularly contending for third place. Our shared closeness—Hearts and Aberdeen are exactly the same—should be this club’s ultimate goal. We know that this season will be difficult for us, but our goal must be to do well in the cup and secure a berth in Europe.
The intention of billionaire Bill Foley, who plans to make the latest addition to his football stable the indisputable third force in Scottish football, is to give Hibs an advantage in the fight for Europe.The first team players at East Mains are aware of a possible shift in the club’s image, even though last week’s AGM vote hasn’t exactly been the topic of conversation in the locker room.
Marshall remarked, “I’m not sure if it will have an impact on the budget in terms of play or be more for the training facilities.” However, making that significant investment will undoubtedly improve the facility; additionally, if it increases the playing roster and enables the manager to bring in top players, that will be necessary since I’m sure there will be a lot of changes in the upcoming summer. We will definitely be vying for that third position. The investment is definitely appreciated, and it can only help the club.
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