David Templeton last night admitted that Hearts first-half performance against Motherwell was the ultimate reason for the Tynecastle side's defeat on Saturday.

The Steelmen were impressive as Hearts frustrated the home support, going two-up and never looking back in Gorgie.

And that misery was only compounded for Temps, one of the few players to impress, as it was a fantastic opportunity for Hearts to get into a Euro race.

"We're really disappointed," he admitted. "We had a chance to get closer to Motherwell if we got the victory but it as not to be.

"They were the better team and they got the victory.

"I think we had to try and get back into the game [after half-time]. In the first half we were really poor and second to every ball. We had to try and get back in the game."

Unlikely as it may seem, the youngster feels that Hearts should not yet give up on at least the possibility of a fifth place finish - and possible European slot depending on the outcome of the Active Nation Scottish Cup final between Dundee United and Ross County.

"There's a chance we can catch them," he insisted. "Every game is a hard game and we're not guaranteed victory.

"If we can play better next week [against Hibs] and get three points maybe teams above us will drop points.

"If we play really well next week it gives us confidence for the Dundee United game and then Celtic are coming here, and it is usually better when the big teams come to Tynecastle."

On Hearts.TV today - Listen to post-match reaction from JJ and Ian Black and catch "highlights" from the game at Tynecastle