New SPFL manager begins reign with warm-weather victory over Premiership rivals

(Image: Euan Cherry/Shutterstock)

Wouter Vrancken opened his Hearts tenure with a 3-1 victory over St Mirren in their pre-season meeting in Pinatar.

The Jambos started on the front foot and made the breakthrough inside eight minutes, with Sander Kartum finishing confidently past new Saints goalkeeper Jacob Chapman after a bright opening spell.

Hearts continued to control the tempo and doubled their lead on the half-hour mark. Yan Dhanda’s corner caused problems in the box, and Rogers Mato was on hand to convert from close range.

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Vrancken rotated his options throughout, handing starts to new arrivals Sabri Guendouz and MJ Kamson-Kamara, while Calvin Miller, Tom Renaud, and Josh McPake were introduced after the break.

St Mirren, who also gave minutes to summer signings Ryan Carr and Samuel Ramos, improved as the game wore on and pulled a goal back in the 80th minute through youngster Thomas Falconer.

Any hopes of a comeback were short-lived, however, as Hearts restored their two-goal advantage seven minutes later when James Wilson turned home Miller’s cross to wrap up the win.