Although Hearts allowed six goals over the two matches, they produced some encouraging attacking moments. However, their finishing let them down, as they failed to convert chances worth a combined 2.6 expected goals.
Having played only a small number of competitive fixtures, uncertainty could be felt around Tynecastle, with numerous supporters departing long before the match ended.
This was Hearts’ first home loss in 15 months, and fans were entitled to expect a stronger display from a squad built with support from the highly regarded Jamestown Analytics recruitment system.
Even so, the revamped team is only two matches into its campaign. The club will still aim to challenge for domestic trophies and remains in contention for a place in either the Europa League or Conference League.
“The season has only just started, but when you assess that squad, strong personalities are needed. When the situation becomes difficult, someone must be willing to take responsibility, ask for the ball and drive the team on,” Stevenson added.
“If pressure starts to build, how much time will the manager be given? How will Jamestown respond? Will they refuse to change their position? If so, the situation could become unpleasant.
“It feels as though everything is rapidly falling apart because this is essentially a completely rebuilt side. There is currently no real bond between the players and the supporters. I know it was only the opening match and that my assessment is severe, but the early indications concern me.”
Vrancken maintained that his squad was not properly prepared because its Champions League campaign began without any competitive warm-up fixtures.
Nevertheless, nine members of the first-leg starting lineup had been with the club during the previous season, while eight players who started Tuesday evening’s return match were also part of last year’s squad.
At certain points they appeared unfamiliar with one another, especially in attacking areas and while dealing with aerial deliveries into their penalty box.
“From a physical perspective, yes,” Vrancken replied when questioned about whether the fixtures had arrived prematurely.
“Reviewing both matches, our work in possession was very positive until fatigue prevented us from maintaining that level, and that made the challenge much harder.
“I want everyone to begin finding the net. The identity of the scorer is unimportant, provided we start producing goals.
“That improvement is also linked to physical conditioning. Better fitness helps players choose the right option and arrive in position to finish decisive opportunities. I cannot fault their attitude or the way they attempted to execute the plan.
“This is not a question of ability. Sturm Graz have considerable European experience, yet we performed at that standard during the first half of both fixtures. The issue is not insufficient quality; we simply need to improve our physical condition.”
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