Robbie Neilson says that a win in Hearts’ opening league match sets his side up for the first Edinburgh Derby clash of the season next week.
The Jambos kicked off their Scottish Premiership campaign on Saturday with a 2-1 win against Ross County.
And Neilson spoke of the importance of picking up all three points in their opening match.
Goals from Alan Forrest and Barrie McKay secured the victory for the side at Tynecastle, with Jordan White pulling one back for the visitors.
“I thought it was a game of two halves, I thought first half we were very poor,” Neilson told Hearts TV after the match.
“We looked like it was our first competitive game, which it was, coming off the back of the pre-season.
“And you could see the intensity that Ross County had having played four games already in the Premier (Sports) Cup.
“Then, I thought second half we were miles better, much more like our self.”
Neilson was asked whether the performance could give him “food for thought” ahead of next week’s clash against Hibernian.
He said: “Not really to be honest with you, we just need to go and win it.
“It doesn’t matter what happens this week, it’s all about next week now.”
The Hearts boss also praised Malky Mackay’s side for their level of performance.
“It’s so important to get three points as quick as you can and we managed to do it today,” he said.
“We knew this was going to be a hard game, Ross County are a very good team.”
“They show good energy, they’re well organised and always difficult to play against.
“And to pick up the three points is really important and it sets us up for next week now.”
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