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 equalized 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.” Some of the stuff thrown on could cause serious injury.
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 field 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 knew we needed to pick up a minimum four points between Aberdeen and Dundee. That’s what we did. And it’s probably a similar week coming up.
“We played well in the game against Hearts. That was a big plus for us and over the balance of play I think everyone agrees we should have won the game with the chances we created. It’s positive to go into a derby and perform so well.”
Out of contract in the summer, Marshall said he won’t be making any decision on his future until the season is over, explaining: “The club has to get the recruitment side right. There’s a big window coming up with the manager’s first summer window.
“I’ve a good relationship with him and the staff. It’s important we focus on the next few games, take stock in the summer and see where it goes. You never know.”
However long Marshall has left between the sticks for Hibs, the undisputed No. 1 is clear on what he’d like to achieve before finally bowing out, saying: “Well, being at this club the cups are huge. We’re surrounded by pictures here of David Gray scoring the winning goal in the Scottish Cup final in 2016.
And Hibs is a big deal, as everybody who joins the team understands. We obviously have a really tough draw in the next round, Rangers at home. But winning a cup is something that every player here aims to do.
“I think a club as a whole, moving forward we need to be challenging for third place and doing so consistently. We’re all close, Hearts and Aberdeen are the exact same, that should be the long-term aim for this club. It’s obviously going to be a stretch for us this season but going well in the cup and finishing in the European spots has to be the aim.”
Billionaire Bill Foley buying into Hibs is intended to give Hibs an edge in the race for Europe, with the American intending to make the latest addition to his footballing stable the undisputed third force in Scottish football. If last week’s AGM vote hasn’t exactly been the talk of the first team dressing room at East Mains, the players are aware of a potential step change in the profile of the club.
“I don’t know if it will affect the budget playing wise or be more for the training facilities,” said Marshall. “But to get that investment is big, I’m sure it will improve the place – and if it adds to the playing staff and allows the manager to add quality players that will be needed because I am sure there will be a lot of changes in the summer. We’re not too far away from competing for that third spot. I’m sure the investment is welcome, and it can only be good for the club.”
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