Kingsley: we want to make new memories

The defender saw a penalty saved in a shootout defeat to Celtic in Hearts’ last final appearance, as the Jambos were denied a ninth Scottish Cup in the cruellest of fashions.
 
But with a fresh shot at silverware within touching distance, Stephen hopes Hearts can make one last push to cap off a successful 2021/22 campaign.
 
“I think it’ll probably play on my mind for the rest of my life, to be honest. I try not to get caught up in it, and make sure if I ever get the chance again to put it right,” he told the media in his cup final preview.
 
“I felt confident going up for it, but it just wasn’t right on the night. It’s one of those things, but you can’t let it stick with you because you need to focus on looking forward and doing it again properly.
 
“We’re in a position now where another cup final is coming up and hopefully all of us can make an impact and get the win.
 
“It would be really special to win it. Everyone knows what a great season we’ve had. This is an opportunity that not many people get so to make that last push would be incredible.”
 
Hearts have been bunkered down at Oriam and Tynecastle this week as the squad and coaching staff put in the work and research ahead of the match.
 
Robbie Neilson is one man who knows what it means to lift the cup in Hearts colours, and Stephen is sure that the manager will pass along his experience of these big occasions.
 
“The manager has obviously had that experience before and I’m sure he’ll have words of wisdom leading up to it. We as players know what’s on the line – not just for us, but for the fans and the club,” he added.
 
“It’s about making sure your body is in the best position to start on Saturday. Everyone here is a professional, and prepares the right way, so I know we’ll do it right.
 
“We need to get the win for them because they’ve been fabulous all season.”