Blaney: We Need To Hold Our Heads Up High

Jacob Blaney explained that the players need to stay positive and keep their heads up after their valiant effort against Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Youth League.

The young centre-back opened the scoring in the first half, but two late goals from the European Giants knocked the Hibees out of the competition.

In what was a close, hard-fought match, Blaney explained how the players were feeling after the game.

“It’s hard to take. Everyone gave their all for the team and the fans. We’re just disappointed.

“We need to give ourselves some credit. We put up a good fight. They didn’t break us down that much and limited their shots on target.

“We need to hold our heads up high. We competed well, we put up a good test, but unfortunately it wasn’t our night.

“On another day it could’ve been different. We had some chances, like the one at the end, but it’s a journey for us. We need to take these disappointments in our stride and move on.”

On the 26th minute Blaney glanced Robbie Hamilton’s free-kick into the back of the net, which sent the supporters into complete pandemonium.

“It was pure joy,” he said explained his emotions. “I didn’t know where to celebrate, I didn’t know where to run; it was just an unbelievable moment for me.”

At the end of the game, whilst there was obvious frustration and disappointment, the youngster explained what it was like to have that special moment with the 7,723 fans inside the Stadium.

“Family, friends, supporters; everyone was here to watch us, and it was a special moment at the end of the game.

“We probably won’t realise until tomorrow what an achievement this is. It’s unbelievable what we’ve done.”

There were also inspirational words in the dressing room.

“Steve Kean and the Gaffer came in after the game and told us what a good experience this was for us,” said the youngster. “Playing against these players will only push us on further and we have to progress.”