Why Hearts should be looking for a big win over East Fife in the Betfred Cup

Hearts could need a big win over East Fife in the Betfred Cup on Tuesday to ensure they are seeded in the knock-out stages.

By Joel Sked

Published 9th Nov 2020, 16:45 BST

Hearts will head to East Fife looking to make it four wins from four in the Betfred Cup. Picture: SNS

Robbie Neilson’s men know that a draw will be enough to progress from the group.

The last-16 of the tournament will see the arrival of Scotland’s European entrants – Celtic, Rangers, Aberdeen and Motherwell.

Last season’s top four will be seeded, plus the four group winners with the best record.

Hearts are one of eight sides with a 100 per cent record in the group stage, however four of those teams have only played twice.

Out of the seven other teams, four have a better goal difference, while two, including rivals Hibs, have the same plus four goal difference as Hearts.

The Championship league leaders won’t have their placing in the knock-out stages confirmed until the weekend if they defeat East Fife in their second trip to Methil in the past month.