Hearts head coach Wouter Vrancken says his side will need an almost perfect performance in Austria next week to reach the UEFA Conference League league phase after a 2-2 draw with Rapid Vienna.
Hearts came from behind to lead 2-1 in the first leg of their play-off round tie at Tynecastle, following goals from Josh McPake and James Wilson.
Rapid substitute Nikolaus Wurmbrand scored a 79th minute equaliser to leave the Austrian club as favourites to progress in the second leg at the Allianz Stadium next Wednesday.
"It's still all open next week," Vrancken said. "We knew what we could expect from Rapid. They create a lot of chances in every game they play but tonight, it wasn't too much."
"Structure wise, we did really good things. On the ball, we can do better. Rapid are a good side and we will have to be at the top of our game next Wednesday."
Team spirit and mentality
Vrancken said a performance at 95 or 98 percent would not be enough to advance, but a small improvement could secure a result.
"We showed some good team spirit and mentality in the second half, coming back from 1-0 down. Of course, I'm a little disappointed we couldn't take a lead to Vienna," he added.
Vrancken noted that Hearts lacked conviction and pressure in the first half before improving after the break, and praised his players for their energy and intensity.
"The two goals we conceded are a pity. We could prevent those situations. But I have to say I'm really proud of the players for the energy they have shown tonight," Vrancken said. "The numbers they get each week are more intense than they ever did, I think. It's good to see."
James Wilson goal
Wilson, a 19-year-old Scotland international striker, gave Hearts the lead in the second half after coming off the bench. He struck a 30-yard shot past Rapid goalkeeper Niklas Heidl.
Wilson spent the second half of last season on loan with the Tottenham under-21 squad.
"I'm really happy for James," Vrancken said. "It was a great goal. Such goals give you confidence, for sure. It is extra special for him as a young lad. He is a coachable player. Let's hope he can make the next steps in his career."
Rapid Vienna reaction
Johannes Thorup, the Rapid manager, expressed frustration at the start of the second half but backed his team to win at home.
"I was satisfied with our first half performance, we had more control than Hearts and created bigger chances," Thorup said.
"We wanted to avoid a momentum change in the second half, with the crowd getting behind Hearts, but unfortunately that happened and we conceded two goals during that period."
"But I'm pretty happy with 2-2 in the end. In our own stadium, we have to dominate the game more and we believe we can do that," he said.
