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I thought we picked the right XI when I saw it - Ross has been inconsistent and Vincent, Tansey and Draper are all solid, expierenced players. I think Yogi thought we could impose ourselves on Hearts and run over the top of them. We started very well, dominating the midfield and pushing Hearts back - Draper had what looked like a great opportunity but he was stretching with his wrong foot and put it over. Hearts were trying to play on the counter and managed to mount some attacks but didn't really threaten us, at least in the initial stages. As the half got towards 20 minutes or so we stopped being effective and the game became scrappy in the middle. Our midfield three weren't on top of enough and Hearts kind of hustled and pushed their way into the game. They didn't really create any clear cut chances but had a couple of shots from distance, a header about two feet wide and got into some good positions. It was pretty frustrating for us not to be able to press home our early superiority but we managed to create a good opening for McKay, who tested McDonald from an angle towards the end of the half. We started the second half the way we did the first, on top and focusing most of our play down our right, where Watkins was very impressive. We were crossing the ball into the box but McKay couldn't buzz onto the end of much and it looked as though we weren't going to take advantage. That changed when Vincent tangled for the ball on the edge of the box and it rolled back to Tansey, who arrowed in a drive from 20 yards, a tremendous hit. It was the sort of the goal that Steven Gerrard scores, a peach. At that point we were in control and I would have backed us to go on and win. Hearts came back, which was inevitable, and pressured us. A clumsy collision between Shinnie and Warren (I think) put Hearts right midfielder clean in on goal but Brill made a great stop and the header was cleared off the line. However, shortly after that we were dealt a double blow when Warren was sent off for a second booking and after he trudged off the free kick was worked for Jamie Hamill to rattle it into the net. Yogi did the obvious and took off a winger for a centre half (Doran for Devine) but a minute or so later Hamill curled in a second free kick, a beauty into the top corner. It was absolutely gutting at this point for Caley fans. We hadn't played well but I think we had been the better side and to lose two goals and a man to set pieces was a massive blow. Personally, I was pretty despondant and didn't think we'd manage anything back. Meekings forced Hamill into a cracking save when he powered a header in from Tansey's corner and McKay also threatened with a header. We hadn't won a match from a losing position all season, I think, and I was basically resigned to defeat. The horrible feeling was compounded by shocking time wasting, diving and feigning by Hearts players. extremely frustrating to see. We pushed forward but weren't able to do anything and when we went down to nine men, when Meekings was red-carded for a trip to stop Hearts getting a breakaway I was certain we were for it. It wasn't a red card if you ask me, he tripped his opponent inside the Hearts half with players covering so it wasn't a clear goalscoring opportunity and it wasn't violent conduct, ie a kick. Our players were seething at it but it looked like we'd end the match howling at the injustice of it all and doing little else. Somehow we managed to get one last ball into the box and in the scramble Nick Ross, who'd actually done well when introduced I thought, squirmed the ball home past McDonald. It was a surreal moment, where I was sitting it looked like the ball was in the side netting and I thougth it was until Ross ran to our fans and someone launched a smoke bomb onto the pitch That was it for 90 minutes and we had the bizarre prospect of playing 30 minutes with nine men. We did this very well. Draper and Devine are about as makeshift a centre-back pairing as you could ask for but defended brilliantly, Draper was unorthodox but unpassable. We brought on Tremarco, who was solid and dangerous going forward, and then had Tansey, Ross, and Watkins sitting in the middle with McKay up front. We sat behind the ball and invited Hearts to test us, there isn't really much else to be done in this sort of situation. It was a strange spectacle, like a defence v attack training match. Hearts seemed burst from the equaliser and didn't offer much. Nick Ross and Billy McKay even managed to eke out a few half chances for us but we were going for penalties. It was noticeable that when the final whistle blew, Hearts players sank down but our players celebrated, we were the positive side mentally at this point. Shinnie hit a poor penalty but that was followed up by an equally pish one from the on-loan striker. Our following penalties from Tansey, Ross, McKay and Draper were perfect and it was Jamie Hammil, man of the match, two goal hero and 'streetwise professional', who had his saved bh Brill, a fantastic diving stretch. It was absolutely remarkable, an insane game. I wasn't drinking before it, or last night, and I just feel a buzz, I'm shaking even now. The only big, do-or-die game we've ever won was the Clyde match to secure promotion in 2004, we're the sort of side who ploughs thought rather than wins crunchers. It's just a remarkable achievement. I'm normally not someone to give this sort of thing too much credence but I thought our spirit carried us on today. To play with the discipline and control we did for thirty minutes and then to hold our nerve in the shoot-out was really driven by the togetherness of the group. We maybe should have beaten Hearts anyway, given our sides but we managed it because of how the team worked for each other and themselves I think.15 points
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From a very happy Hibby I just want to say thank you, thankyou, thankyou! Now go on and win it as rest assured the entire country will be wishing you well against the Dons. Your team team today were truly awesome.7 points
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A wholehearted Very Well Done from Skaville. What a magnificent effort from your lads today in the face of adversity: the location and time of game, and especially the performance of the clown with the whistle. Thistle were by far the better team over the piece and imho Justice was done. Am absolutely delighted for you guys, and more than a tad envious. A national Cup Final doesn't come along too ofter for us "diddy" teams, but is certainly a day to be cherished. Best of luck in the Final - probably at Pittodrie, knowing the SPFL --- Enjoy your day out where ever it is.. Hope there's a few sare heids in Inverness tomorrow6 points
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The Proclaimers Inverness Caledonian Thistle publicly announced themselves on the footballing world today by reaching their first major final after only 20 years of existence. The near 2000 fans although outnumbered by almost 10-1 proclaimed the message loud and clear at Easter Road in the Sunshine on Leith after Hearts, the infamous 'always the bridesmaids' were beaten in the League Cup semi-final by nine man Inverness. Ten buses and various other modes of transport were deployed as the Highland fans made their way to the 'neutral' venue of Easter Road once more, scene of last seasons dramatic shoot out disappointment. Not even a fire drill at Glasgow Central could halt the march as most travelled 500 miles, well nearer 400, to witness this historic day. It was literally sunshine on Leith, and Yogi rang the changes with Richie Foran failing to make the bench. Back came Ross Draper, James Vincent, Marley Watkins and Greg Tansey to produce a powerful midfield. Dropping to the bench were Nick Ross, Carl Tremarco, Liam Polworth and Danny Williams along with Ryan Esson and Danny Devine. Hearts sprung the bigger surprise with Ryan Stevenson only starting from the bench, which was odd considering they brought forward their game with St Mirren to free him from suspension. Loan signing Paul McCallum joined Stevenson on the bench and he is an unknown quantity. Graham Shinnie captained the Highlanders onto the pitch with his counterpart Danny Wilson, and Raven, Warren and Draper tread a fine line as they are one booking away from missing a possible Cup Final appearance. Inverness started on the front foot but Paterson burst forward only for Meekings to dispossess him in the box. Play raced to the other end and Draper spooned a great opportunity to open the scoring after McKay fed him in the box, Draper electing to prod the ball with his wrong foot and it went high over. A nervy start by Hearts as the game settled into a midfield tussle. A tussle that Scott Robinson took too seriously as he clattered Billy McKay, Raven intervening and Robinson rightly booked. Doran latched onto a throw-in but his shot from the edge of the box was dragged just wide of MacDonald's goal. Inverness were asserting themselves more on the game and a Doran corner was flicked goalwards by Tansey, but the keeper saved comfortably. Some of the play was a bit frantic with Inverness looking the more comfortable on the ball and ahead on possession. A Doran shot was blocked but the ball spun towards the crossbar, the keeper tipping it behind, eleven minutes gone. A re-taken corner gave Doran a second chance but Draper's header went a couple of yards wide. Callum Paterson lay on the park as Inverness strode forward again and Watkins caused problems with a run deep into the box, but another effort was knocked wide, the Hearts fans not amused. Hearts woke up and Carrick headed narrowly over after a good break on the right side and a McGowan cross. However, it was Inverness that were making most of the early running, Watkins being prominent in most forays forward. Twenty minutes gone and Inverness forced the Hearts defence to scramble the ball out for a corner, Watkins close range overhead kick resulting in a sore head for Paterson and a free kick to Hearts. Our midfield still had a tight grip of the game at this point. Some tough tackling going in and one or two players might well fall foul of the referee if not the physio. MacDonald once more has to rush to the edge of his box to thwart another Inverness attack and at the other end in Hearts first real sustained attack Brill had to watch a long cross sail narrowly over, but the Jambos continued to press before Shinnie cleared the danger. Hearts were now seeing a bit more of the ball as the Inverness midfield lost their way slightly, but chances were at a premium. Gary Warren took a sore one as Paterson went under him for a high ball, but he resumed after a couple of shakes of the head. Inverness without a regular dead ball expert for a long time might still have to wait a while yet as Greg Tansey fluffed one from thirty yards. Marley Watkins took the first Inverness yellow card as Nicholson sped forward, Brill easily gathering the ball and as a result, McKay was released by the keeper, bursting into the box but again closed down. Nicholson tested Brill at the other end, and the keeper parried it well, then Warren made sure he would miss a prospective final by earning a booking. The game was more even now but Inverness were struggling to get behind the Hearts defence as easily as they did in the first quarter. Shinnie drew a corner but Doran easily found the keepers gloves. Passes were now going astray as every ball was being keenly contested and a war of nutrition broke out before half time. Brill took two goes to get his hands on a swinging free kick and as Inverness broke forward McKay squandered the best chance of the game hitting MacDonald from seven yards as he burst into the box. Should have scored with a bit more composure, but it was a great block by MacDonald and it was typical cup fare, the game raging from end to end. Callum Paterson got a finger wagging from the ref just before half time, the word tousy springs to mind. Billy McKay almost broke the deadlock once more but his shot from the edge of the box rose too high when he had better options and the half drew to a close. Would Inverness rue their ascendency not being capitalised on? Half Time 0-0 A boost for Hearts as the second half got under way with Ryan Stevenson replacing David Smith. Game on! Inverness were now shooting towards their home end. A penalty shout was waived away as Inverness continued to take the game towards Hearts and a couple of Doran corners in quick succession followed, as did another penalty claim, Warren falling in the box. It was a replication of the first few minutes of the game as Inverness pushed forward in numbers. Doran was almost on the end of some great interplay but the Hearts defence stood firm, just. A raking Meekings ball picked out Watkins and the cross just fell behind Draper as Inverness continued to press. Greg Tansey had made a hash of a free kick earlier, but when he latched onto another loose ball around the Hearts box, he absolutely lashed as ferocious a shot as you would see behind MacDonald to put Inverness in the driving seat for now, and not undeserved it has to say at this moment. I'm not sure you will see a better strike anywhere this season, or maybe any other season for that matter. MacKay was inches away from connecting to make it two nil, as was Vincent from the return ball, and Doran could have done better as they stretched the now overworked Jambos defence when he sped into the box, his shot straight at a grateful MacDonald. Jeepers; we almost shot ourselves in the foot, but Brill made a tremendous reflex save to deny Paterson and Raven completed a headed clearance from Paterson's header. A let off and a warning as Hearts rolled up their sleeves and introduced unknown quantity Paul McCallum for McGowan. Hearts upped the pace and got the break as Warren looked to be harshly sent off for giving away a free kick right on the edge of the box. McHattie shaped to take it but a massively deflected Hamill shot found the corner of a wrong footed Brill's net. Devine then replaced Aaron Doran into central defence after the dismissal of Gary Warren as Hearts sensed blood. Another clumsy tackle gifted Hearts a second free kick and there was no dubiety about the quality of this free kick as Hamill found the top corner. Stunner! Ten man Inverness looked shell shocked as that two goals in two minutes turned the game on it's head and MacDonald denied McKay as they pushed for an equaliser to take the game to extra time, and once more MacDonald saved superbly from a Meekings header from the corner. Things were beginning to go Hearts way now as the burden of playing with ten men began to take it's toll. Tiring legs as the game entered the last fifteen minutes. Shinnie was upended on the touchline and Tansey swung in a great ball, but it would not fall kindly to us and Hearts cleared. Ten minutes to go and Hearts players were finding it easy to stay on the deck as time ebbed away. Could Inverness muster one more charge as Tapping came on for Nicholson who left the arena on a stretcher. Paterson burst forward from deep with a great run but his shot was deflected out for a corner to Hearts. The final throw of the dice for Inverness came when Nick Ross replaced David Raven as they went for broke, Graeme Shinnie volleying one at MacDonald. Five minutes of stoppage time were confirmed as a tiring Inverness gave their all but sadly it all went tits up when Meekings lost the ball then hacked down the Hearts player as he took the ball forward. Nine men on the park and the game was all but over. Brill punted a long free kick forward but three Jambos smothered the ball, content to sit on it for a few seconds. Unbelievably, just when you think it's all over, Nick Ross forces the ball over the line for his first and most important goal of the season. No more than Inverness deserved to be honest in the last minute of stoppage time, and seconds later the ref blew his peeper to send the tie into thirty minutes of extra time. Absolute pandemonium in the Inverness end and delight for Nick Ross who started from the bench. Ninety Minutes 2-2 Hearts still look the likeliest though with Inverness down to nine men now, and straight from the kick off Brill had to save smartly from a superb McCallum header to keep the game all square. Carl Tremarco replaced Vincent at the start of extra time to put some fresh legs on the park. Two penalty shouts in quick succession as Hearts superiority in numbers told on the proceedings, Inverness throwing bodies in the way as Hearts tried to force the ball home, clearance to anywhere the order of the day now. Inverness look like they would take a penalty shoot-out right now. However it was now wave after wave of Maroon attacks as they tried to unsettle the makeshift Inverness defence due to the two sending off's, firing plenty of high balls into the box, Grant Mackay heading tamely over from a good position in the 99th minute. Tapping almost bundled the ball home as a melee broke out in the Inverness six yard box before a free kick was awarded to the Inverness side. A rare break forward with McKay feeding Ross who drew a free kick on the left. Tansey whipped it in and McKay tried to flick it on but MacDonald flopped on it to kill the ball. Inverness were busting a gut now and managed to survive the first period of extra time, the dream is still on and Nick Ross, the saviour is linking well with McKay on the rare occasions that we do get forward. Extra Time Half Time 2-2 A long, very long Tremarco throw-in caused panic in the Hearts box but they smuggled it clear and play raged to the other end, Brill collecting a hanging cross well. Ross found time in the box to turn after some good build up play, but this time his shot was weak and into the arms of MacDonald. Moments later McKay brilliantly held the ball up and exchanged passes with Ross before the latter fired a cross in which the keeper gathered easily. It was however encouraging signs for nine man Inverness. Down to the last ten minutes now and the players left on the park are running on empty. John Beaton feeling sorry for Inverness and a couple of decisions go our way. Meh. Billy McKay gets upended in the box and another melee ensues, but the ball is eventually driven harmlessly over, and at the other end Hearts head over to relieve the pressure on the Inverness defence. Have Hearts been saving themselves for a late surge or have Inverness got something else up their sleeves? Great defending by Tremarco as he mugs Hamill and McKay holds the ball up brilliantly again as Inverness continue to take the game to the eleven men. Suddenly Hearts break forward and McCallum should have scored but headed over from point blank range. That would surely have sealed it. McKay again provides an outlet and wins a valuable time consuming throw-in for under pressure Inverness. It's backs to the wall stuff now and Brill comfortably gathers a cross and despite a lung bursting run from Shinnie the game draws to a close, and penalties are the order of the day........pulsating stuff........PHEW! Full Time 120mins 2-2 So, it's penalties once more and the two most important men on the park will be Paul MacDonald and Dean Brill. The two keepers exchange pleasantries and Shinnie takes the first one, but keeper saves. My Heart cannae take this. 0-0 Shinnie miss, MacDonald guesses correct and makes the save. 0-0 McCallum miss, Brill does likewise. 0-1 Billy McKay scores, bottom corner, keeper AWOL 1-1 Carrick scores similar to McKay, opposite corner. 1-2 Nick Ross blasts home, tremendous strike from young Nick, chuffed. 1-2 Brill saves Hamill's mediocre shot, Karma! 1-3 Tansey blasts home as expected, super strike though, high and hard. 2-3 Robinson dribbles his one in, like our Billy's one. 2-4 Draper, cool as a cucumber slots the ball into the opposite corner, game over. Pandemonium once more in the away end as Inverness defy the odds to secure their first ever major final appearance, Caley 100 grabbing a wonderful souvenir by collecting Dean Brill's glove as the big keeper throws them into the crowd. Big Yogi has a grin the size of Leith Walk embedded on his dial and that will take some time to come off. More reaction and video to follow, but for the moment huge congratulations to everybody, and a final against Aberdeen to come. Can it get any Better. Brings a tear to yer eye.................Have an unofficial swatch at the penalty shootout Date: 02.02.2014 Venue: Easter Road Stadium, Edinburgh Attendance: 12762 Referee: John Beaton Hearts: 2 Lineup: MacDonald, Hamill, McHattie, Wilson, McGowan (McCallum 64), Robinson, Paterson, McKay, Smith (Stevenson 46), Carrick, Nicholson (Tapping 84) Subs (not used): Ridgers, McGhee Scorers: Hamill (67, 69) Booked: Robinson (6), MacDonald (54), Stevenson (69), Paterson (103), McKay (116) Sent Off: none Inverness CT: 2 Lineup: Brill, Raven (Ross 87), Shinnie, Vincent (Tremarco 95), Warren, Meekings, Mckay, Draper, Doran (Devine 68), Watkins, Tansey Subs (not used): Esson, Williams Scorers: Tansey (54), Ross (90+4) Booked: Watkins (32), Warren (34), Shinnie (90) Sent Off: Warren (66), Meekings (90) Inverness C.T. win 2-4 on pens after extra time4 points -
I'll just leave this here - the glove that saved Hamill's penalty. Karma indeed:
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Just got back home after watching the game with friends in Oxfordshire. I missed almost half an hour at the start because of flooding near the Thames. It would have been a travesty if we had lost that. Warren's second yellow was hardly even a foul. Meekings was just stupid, showing a bit of immaturity. But against all odds we triumphed. That goal by Nick Ross may prove to be the most valuable in our 20 year history, and Tansey's strike was worthy of winning any match. What an inspired decision getting him back to ICT. And what about the penalties! All except Shinnie's were great. I guess we must have been practising. And Dean's two saves made all previous talk on here about replacing him with Esson for the shoot out look like so much nonsense. I can't tell you how proud I was of our extra time effort in denying Hearts. We even created the better chances in the second period. Heroes all, and very difficult to pick a MOM. I'd give it equally to the nine who finished the game.4 points
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It is time - a flotilla of support ships set sail from ports around Britain to pay homage to HMS Sneck, basking in the Firth of Forth - God bless her and all who sail with her - BRING IT FECKIN ON4 points
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I have been reliably assured by Neil Doncaster in person that the venue will be entirely neutral to both teams. He was pleased that Pittodrie would be available due to the home team not playing a league game that weekend.3 points
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Still trying to climb back down from the clouds. Such a spirited, legendary and inspirational performance from everyone of those boys out there. Rasper from Tansey and then after disaster struck we just kept plugging away. When Meekings got sent off (disgusting decision) I really thought that was it but as my Mother always says when its your day, its your day and when Nicky boy bundled in that equalizer I raced around the away end like a maddy, balling my eyes out like a wee bairn but I didnt care. The dream was all but snatched away and suddenly it became possible again. Extra time lasted an eternity but after Brill made that save at the start of it we held firm, kept the 4-3-1 formation firm (as ridiculous as it sounds) and in some respects were unlucky not to snatch the win. The penalties were well dispatched by all, Shinnie was unlucky with McDonald saving his well. Deano made 2 fantastic stops, in particular from Hammill wihich was a satisfying moment for all of us as we tolerated his taunts and time wasting throughout the game...turd! When Draper calmly tucked his away everyone just went mental, such a buzz and one I will never forget. Was a great experience being able to share it with friends and family alike was something special. Everyone of those boys that played out that half hour are legends and Yogi can happily brag being the first manager to guide an ICT team to a major final. Roll on 16th March!3 points
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Agreed. Not sure who it was, but a real credit to himself and his club. We should show respect to a man who showed respect to our players and club.3 points
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Agree with previous comment about 9 men beating 12. Every time a Hearts player fell over they were awarded a free kick. Every time the Hearts fans squeeled we had a man booked or sent off. Shocking display from the home referee. With 11 men we didn't really play to our potential, but when we went down to 9 the remaining players became almost super human. Hughes got the substitutions spot on. Nick Ross had the best game of his career. He was the difference maker IMO. McKay took on the entire Hearts back 4 by himself and came away with the ball most of the time. Draper, Devine, Shinnie and Tremarco were absolute rocks at the back. What a performance. Deano commanding the box under pressure and saving 2 out of 4 penalties. A performance for the history books! When we lost the semi last season our confidence never really recovered, hopefully this result has the opposite effect and gives us a shot in the arm!3 points
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This is the SFA rules we are dealing with, and you will do as they say or make up at any moment in time.3 points
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That was magnificent. To come from a goal and two men down to victory was titanic. It was effectively 9 men against 13 when you factor in the referee and Hearts 'home' advantage. I have had the misfortune to witness far too many poor refereeing performances in well over four decades of watching football but today's was quite the worst yet still we prevailed. Extra time was surreal. We were two men light yet were never seriously threatened. Testament to the energy and commitment of the players and the organisation of the coaching staff. Whilst Billy McKay may not have been at his clinically finishing best, I thought he was tireless today running for 120 minutes ploughing a lone furrow up front in extra time and still having the energy to blast an unstoppable penalty. An emotionally drained but immensely proud Caley Jaggy.... Hometown boy Nick Ross, whatever else you go on to do in your career you are now forever part of ICT folklore. A bold statement but given where we were after 94 minutes,this, in my view, is an even greater feat than Parkhead February 2000.3 points
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Outstanding back to the wall performance by the 9 men all hero's. Many thanks to CJT for bus organisation etc and to all the boys & girls in attendance for making it a top day. Unfortunately only down side, our bus toilet required gas masks every time someone opened the door, but hey we survived.3 points
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To steal one of Charlies titles................... http://caleythistleonline.com/page/index.html/_/reports-2013-14/hearts-v-invernessct-semi-final-r1123 Fantastic achievement :notworthy: :clapoverhead:2 points
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I think we should play the 4-3-1 formation for every game from now on!2 points
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Lou Reed himself couldn't have come up with a more perfect day. We even won the pub quiz in the Persevere in the evening. Feckin smug right enuff.2 points
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Quite enjoyed the ending of that game. Aye, quite good.2 points
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Just watched the You Tube video of the penalties and it looks like Danny Wilson came over during the celebrations to congratulate the Inverness team. That was magnanimous and is a credit not only to Scottish but world football. An amazing gesture after a very difficult season and such a difficult end to the game for Hearts. An example to all football professionals.2 points
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Has anyone been over to see how the Hearts fans are feeling? I'm guessing that winning v 10 men on 90 minutes, and then having another 30 minutes to brush aside 9 men, they might be somewhat disappointed. :laugh:2 points
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On my way bk south after the best game ever. First half was awful enough said besides the odd one or two chances. Second half what a game! Tansey great strike 1-0 and i thought this the chance to go on and put there young side to bed. Instead we hoofed it instead of playing on the ground and allowed them to come at us. Warren not sure but he had committed a few fouls and was walking a tightrope. The goal poor marking fouled us and it was back against the wall time. Hamill fk very good nothing Deano could do. But we had the best chance with 10 men but wonderful save McDonald. Meekings was frustration, harsh for red but poor tackle. With 9 men i thought it was over but Nick Ross thank you for giving the best high that could beat any drug. I was on the front row but wow what a rush cannot describe the euphoria. Extra time was our defence vs there attack but ironically it was us with the best chances and they seemed terrified of Billy and Nick as the only two to attack. Pens ended great after Graeme missed the first but plaudits to Deano after standing up to be counted. 12 months ago hearts looked unstoppable from the spot but Deano was huge. To win on pens is great after last season but that goal by nick will live long in the memory. Winning was great but the wild celebrations to take it into extra time was special. Great crowd, great result in very happly pissed on my train journey south roll on the final. Yessssssssssss2 points
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had inverness lost that game , serious questions would be getting asked of those 2 red cards . in the end the 9 of inverness were creating more chances than the 12 men of hearts . incredible stuff , the best team won and i hope they can go all the way and dump aberdeen in the final2 points
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Stunning, stunning, stunned! No voice left and utter admiration for "the famous nine" (name for North stand?) Heroes to a man...bring on Abdn2 points
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One family member, two iPads and FaceTime, and a rather late night....but Wowzers! Was that a game or what??? Ref blew it big style, but no matter, 9 men is enough for the mighty ICT. I think "300" should be the movie on the bus home, or maybe the Alamo? Lion Rampants in blue shirts.2 points
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Groundhog Day Yes folks, it's our annual League Cup semi-final pilgrimage against Hearts at Easter Road coming up this weekend at erm, well, Easter Road. The prize for the victors is a final appearance against Aberdeen who thumped St Johnstone 4-0, with Jonny Hayes and Adam Rooney prominent and amongst the goals. Similarities to last season are scary. Inverness riding high inside the top six, Hearts struggling at the wrong end of the table, trying to cook the books to enable new recruits to be conjured up out of thin air, Mr Ngoo springs to mind, and the possibilities of us falling out of both cups within a week. Hearts are once more massaging the SFA in their attempts to bend the rules in their favour, conveniently getting Ryan Stevenson's suspension out of the way prior to the semi-final and looking to bring in fresh faces, despite a signing embargo imposed upon them because of their administration woes. They are of course in a positive mode, well their points tally is anyway having trounced our near neighbours in last weeks SPFL fixture at Dinwgall and coming from a goal down inside a minute to beat St Mirren in that re-arranged midweek fixture to leave them with a total of +5 points, We have beaten the Jambos twice already this season, both wins were comfortable and both by two goals to nil, home and away, where we could and should have won by even greater margins. However, the gloss seems to have disappeared from our game. Our blistering start to the season has been eroded away and we seem to have been swallowed up by the pack. Our goals for has dried up, only three goals in our last six games. Billy McKay was prolific at the start of the season and even he has endured lean times recently. Mind you, were it not for Billy's eye for goal, we would be lingering in the also rans stables and surely it's time for Inverness to get some help for the wee man who has been ploughing a lone furrow recently. Much has been said about Hearts having a youthful side. That itself is true, but what they lack in experience, they more than make up for with a total lack of fear and plenty of tenacity. They have taken a couple of batterings this season and that was to be expected as they were badly exposed against Celtic. However, put them into a battle with arch rivals Hibernian in a fierce Edinburgh derby and they fought to the bitter end and in fact ended Hibs run in the last round of the League Cup, although they just lost out in the league game a couple of weeks ago, but not for the want of trying. Inverness have not been firing on all cylinders since well before Xmas, and the departure of Terry Butcher has not helped. John Hughes has a thankless task trying to maintain Butcher's excellent start to the campaign, and it will be impossible to better it, given that we reached the heady heights of second in the League giving some of our supporters the notion that we were going to challenge Celtic for top spot...........steady on chaps and chapesses. The confidence of the fans looks as though it has matched the teams belief at the moment and even the most ardent of loyal supporters are, to put it mildly, shiting themselves over the thought of facing a resurgent Hearts in front of yet another hostile crowd in Edinburgh, and rightly so. We struggled to get out of second gear at Kilmarnock while Hearts were ripping into County at the weekend. Last year we were maybe over confident and paid the price as Hearts rolled up their young sleeves and got stuck in. This time I see no difference to that format and we need to match Hearts exuberance or the outcome may well be similar. It took extra-time and penalties to separate the sides last year although Billy McKay should have scored the winner but he inexplicably forgot he was a predatory striker for a couple of seconds and missed a glorious chance to strike in extra-time. The rest is history and the Phillip Roberts penalty miss is the one lasting memory of that fateful day that lingers longest. That and the miserable treatment we received in Paul Kane's pub pre-match where nobody ordered pies for the ravenous Inverness support, despite the thousands of pounds being emptied into the tills at the Four in Hand. Rank rotten treatment from the former Hibee and one to avoid this time methinks, although the promise of grub is once more on the table. Inverness skipper Richie Foran is playing it close to his chest about his chances of playing on the Sabbath. He is well under way with his training and he could be influential, even from the bench. Yogi has a full squad otherwise and team selection is vital for this game with Draper, Tansey and Vincent all vying for a start in midfield, an area where this tie may well be won or lost. Hearts have brought in this seasons Mr Ngoo with a replica loan signing in the shape of big Paul McCallum from West Ham. Ryan Stevenson's ban was completed in that midweek win over the Buddies and he will be an important player for Hearts who have lost Adam King to Swansea and have Jason Holt and Jamie Walker out injured. tm4tj Prediction:- Well, we have beaten Hearts twice already this season but this is a different kettle of fish. The Jambos are on a high after consecutive wins have put them into positive points. But it's not only their points tally that is positive, they have been playing with real desire of late and with little else to play for this season, then all their eggs will be in the same basket and they will be fully committed to this one. They won on penalties last year and it might take extra time to settle this one, but Inverness have the quality to win this outright provided the attitude and application matches that of the capital side. I'll settle for a 1-0 win for Inverness to make their first major final. These guys can be heroes, just for one day............................2 points -
Great day for a club that balances it books and seemingly has to fight against the odds to gain respect from the Scottish football fraternity. Maybe one day the media, authorities and other fans will start to give us the credit we deserve. TogetherNess.1 point
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Considering the Dons players walked off the pitch the other week refusing to shake hands, that Hearts player deserves plaudits for his sportsmanship.1 point
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What do you mean ALMOST superhuman ?1 point
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He did!1 point
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Altogether now!! Happy ...happy talk1 point
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what an amazing game! literally had everything, best part of the match is when Jamie Hamill is walking up to take his penalty, taunting to the caley fans and then Brill saves it. Fantastic performance by the 9 players that played through the extra time - bring on Aberdeen1 point
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I watched on tv as I said I would. Firstly well done guys for a fantastic never say die performance. You made me feel so proud. Justice was done for the red cards. Firstly it wasn't Warren who committed the foul for his second yellow. It was Watkins. No wonder Gary was raging for being no where near the incident. Then Josh's red card was no worse than a yellow and certainly not as bad as Robinson's near leg breaker on Billy in 6 minutes.1 point
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What a game that even with 9 men and the officials against us we deservedly won, Great effort from all the players and a great day out for the fans, it really was Sunshine on Leith today! Looking forward to the final! :clapoverhead: :clapoverhead:1 point
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Quality cup tie and great to be in a major final. One step forward from last season and another entry into the ict history book. Well done lads and see you in the final.1 point
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Well we beat all the Odds location KO Time and the Referee what a joke he was Warren 1st booking fair enough second never a booking and Meekings no more than a yellow especially when you think that Hearts player only got a yellow when he felled McKay. I really thought we had lost the game after going 2-1 down but you have to hand it to the lads for digging and getting the equaliser in the dying minutes and then to hold out and actually create the better chances in extra time with 9 men was incredible. I thought that our boys would probably knackered that they would not be able to take Penalties but once again they rose to the occasion. This has to be probably our greatest victory. Pity Warren will miss the Final and we surely must protest Meekings Red Card1 point
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And given that a proportion of the Hearts fans only went cos it was being played in their own back yard, even McDiarmid would have been adequate!1 point
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Attendance was 12,600 i see. So much for Tannadice(14,000) not being big enough. Doncaster is a fecking clown n needs to be shot of!1 point
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The result was never in doubt.1 point
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Spent today at the foot of Nelson's Column...hoping for victory. Naelifts texting the action (for which, thanks!)...but I just knew when we grabbed the lead.... What was everyone nervous about? A great result and well done to everyone associated with ICT!1 point
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Pwoud, vewwy pwoud and quite pished. That was right up there with the best of the pele years. Caley100 got Deano's glove and we've all been getting photos with it in the Iona.1 point
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Absolutely fantastic performance - ICT heroes all.1 point
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Aberdeen will be tipped as favourite's to lift the trophy but after watching todays performance i truley believe ICT can win, they showed such spirit stamina & determination with just 9 men ..... WELL DONE ICT !! :ictscarf:1 point
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Believe .... believe....believe !1 point
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Nifty nine nullify the hearts. Fantastic result, a heart stopping moment I will enjoy forever. Well done the Team that doesn't give up. What was that poll about goalkeepers ? There is only Brill .........Well done that man. Graeme Shinnie missed that penalty to lull MacDonald into a false sense of security Tansey once again Welcome back and I know now why Ross was named NICK 'cause he certainly nicked that one. What do ICT do..................They believe1 point
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That was not good for the nerves at all, and I get more of the same tonight with the Broncos in the Superbowl. Like Charlie Christie, I was incredulous at the red cards, Warren's second yellow was barely a foul, and if it was then more Watkins than him, and Meekings....... well WTF. Warren is out of the final no matter what, yellows can't be appealed IIRC, but Meekings' red surely can. Couldn't complain about a yellow for the challenge, but he wasn't on a booking from before was he ? If that can get downgraded to a yellow then he would be available for the final, He and Devine handled Pittodrie the other week so wouldn't be worried about that pairing. Put up the effort an belief of today again and a first major trophy is possible.1 point
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Well done ICT!!! Karma for last year lads :-)1 point
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I've woken up with a sense of excitement, expectation, and, if I'm honest, some apprehension. I cannot be there this time, but I wish all the ICT team, management and supporters a wonderful day out, ending of course with a deserved win against Hearts. I'll be with you in spirit, and indeed spirits before and after the match , which I'll catch on TV. Safe journey, and see you at the final.1 point
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First one I have been able to get to so maybe that will mean first final for all.of is1 point
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May depend on the conditions and who's the convener so these may vary a bit from bus to bus - No planned toilet stops all buses will have toilets onboard. Probably around 30 mins, as far as I'm aware they're leaving after from Leith Links unless the police change that. Buses will return to where they picked you up, not much use leaving your car in Inshes and getting dropped off at the stadium!1 point
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Inverness CT (1-2) Hamilton - Play off Final 2nd Leg - Preview
tm4tj posted an article in Previews 2023-24,
The hurt, the pain, the reluctance and pig-headedness to listen to the fans asking what is going on, the lack of communication, the lack of ambition, the stench of mismanagement, the concert company, the battery farm, the demise since winning the Scottish Cup in 2015, the lack of passion, the lack of commitment, the dwindling fanbase, the lack of leadership. It has left the fans comfortably numb-
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tm4tj, -
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Hamilton -V- Inverness CT - Play off Final 1st Leg - Preview
tm4tj posted an article in Previews 2023-24,
However all is not well and we just kept our heads above water thanks to Arbroath being rubbish. Onto the play offs and an insipid performance at Links Park left us all wondering if our time has come to drop into oblivion. Our performance certainly would not look out of place in the lower leagues. We clung on for a 0-0 draw away from home and scraped a 1-0 win at Inverness with Billy Mckay saving our blushes. Everything about the club has negative undertones at the moment.-
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tm4tj, -
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Inverness CT 1-0 Montrose Play-Off Second Leg (0-0)
tm4tj posted an article in Reports 2023-24,
Little Consolation: Inverness will face Hamilton Accies in the Play-Off final after nervously scraping past part-time Montrose who were eventually reduced to ten men when Blair Lyons was sent off after an off the ball incident in the 84th minute involving Morgan Boyes. Inverness had dominated throughout, but failed to capitalise on their possession, and as per the entire season failed to create much of note. The first half was livlier than the first leg, but the same problems showed up our lack of quality. We started with no wingers and Billy Mckay as usual in a withdrawn role. It's not worked all season, so why should it suddenly work now. A woeful first half ended goalless and it was on the hour and out of the blue when Billy Mckay prodded in from three yards to score the only goal of the game following a corner-
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tm4tj, -
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Inverness CT -V- Montrose - Second Leg (0-0)
tm4tj posted an article in Previews 2023-24,
As much as we have criticised the Caley Jags performance on Tuesday night, let's not lose sight of the fact that Montrose are a decent League 1 side with a good blend of experience and talented prospects. For our part, let's keep them as a good League 1 side and that means no room for faffing about. Time has run out now, there's no hiding places and no room for shirkers. Ditch the sideways passing or put goal posts in front of the Main Stand and tuck shops.-
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tm4tj, -
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Montrose 0-0 Inverness CT - Play Off 1st Leg
tm4tj posted an article in Reports 2023-24,
FULL TIME: 0-0
All to play for on Saturday, but don't hold your breath...
However, if we continue like this, it will be our final game this season.
Best performer for us was Samson Lawal, the only bright spark on the field.
Alloa 2-2 Hamilton was the other semi-final score tonight. On this evidence, I doubt either side will be quaking in their boots.
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