Hearts continued their pre-season preparations with a 2-2 draw against English League Two club Crawley Town - with Stephen Kinglsey again an inspirational figure.
The left-back by trade netted a hat-trick in a victory over East Fife earlier this month and followed that fine display up with a two-goal haul in the first half. First he rocketed a shot from 25 yards into the net and then bulleted a header into the net.
Alan Forrest and Michael Smith alongside Liam Boyce had chances to make it three for Hearts before the break but two goals was what their lead stood at. Those missed opportunities would prove costly in the final score with Crawley hitting back via Jack Payne and Dom Telford inside nine second half minutes. Ultimately it was all about minutes into legs and most of those featuring got an hour as the entire squad edges towards playing 90 minutes.
Sign up to Edinburgh Live newsletters for more headlines straight to your inbox .
Another positive was the introduction of Kye Rowles, who appeared on the bench as a trialist at Tynecastle after his move from Central Coast Mariners.
A busy run of friendlies comes to an end next week for manager Robbie Neilson, taking on Preston North End this Wednesday before Gary Locke's testimonial next Saturday versus Stoke City.
READ MORE: Robbie Neilson details Hearts selection plans with high volume of games ahead of European adventure
Then it's all eyes on Premiership kick-off versus Ross County on July 30th.
READ NEXT:
- Kye Rowles' Hearts role detailed as Robbie Neilson pinpoints position in line-up
- Robbie Neilson opens up on the Hearts plan to prepare side for European adventure
- Ben Woodburn confirms next move after Liverpool exit and Hearts loan as he could become defender
- Hearts boss Robbie Neilson explains friendship with Hibs gaffer Lee Johnson as he fires warning
