Hearts tonight hailed the magnificent attendance at today's benefit match for John and Nicola Tams.

The contest between Hearts Legends and Real Maroon and Duddingston, each of whom fielded a team for a half, was watched by an incredible 839 supporters who packed out New Dundas Park in Bonnyrigg.

It was largely a one-sided contest, alas, with the Legends running out 15-0 winners, however the crowd was fantastically entertained with a superb performance by the old boys, described by many in the team as one of their best.

Of note, Jose Quitongo entertained everyone with tricks, flicks and general nonsense (think piggy backs on the opposition and using the ref for a one-two).

But most importantly, significant funds were raised for the two most important people of the day - John and Nicola who expressed their heart-felt thanks.

The Edinburgh couple were married in July. They went on honeymoon in Sorento, Italy where they were hit by a drunk driver. John, in an act of the truest bravery, jumped in front of his wife, taking the full force of the car. Both are recovering, although it is understandably going to be a long journey in many ways.

The loudest cheer of the day was, of course, reserved for when Scott Wilson introduced them to the crowd, who lifted the roof off the little stadium in what was a very emotional moment.

Marketing manager Lawrence Broadie said: "I want to thank the Hearts Legends for joining us and making the day so special.

"I must also thank Alan White at the Heart of Midlothian Education and Community Trust for pulling that side of things together. He did a brilliant job and was a massive support from the moment we discussed the game.

"I'd also like to thank Scott Wilson and photographer Eric McCowat who gave up their time to support the event. 

"Both teams did themselves credit. Whilst the sponsorship phase of the fundraising is not over yet its clear that many of the players have raised sums significantly above the £50 sponsorship threshold to participate. Indeed some have raised hundreds of pounds.

"It was a day when the Hearts support - and those of other clubs who were very welcome - united brilliantly, and John and Nicola's friends showed just what they mean to them. Everyone can be very proud, indeed.

"As a club we'll continue to support John and Nicola in every way we can. They deserve it. "

John and Nicola have kept a very low profile since returning to Scotland just over a fortnight ago, but John wrote a note of thanks in the official Matchday Programme.

He said: "Nicola and I would like to thank everyone for their supporters and both football teams Duddingston Athletic and Real Maroon.

"We are overwhelmed with the support received from family, friends and work colleagues involved."

When the time is right both John and Nicola will be guests of the club at Tynecastle when the home support will have the chance to pay tribute to their bravery.

A picture special from today's game will be online tomorrow (Monday) featuring some brilliant images from a special day.

Hearts.TV will have special audio feature from today's game including interviews with Alan White, Kris O'Neil, Gary Locke, the Real Maroon management team, Jose Quitongo and Jimmy Sandison, online later.

Picture courtesy of Eric McCowat - with thanks