Grant Scott believes that Friday night's Edinburgh Derby will be a tightly contested affair.
In two meetings this season, Scott's side have come out on top on both occasions; however, Hearts currently sit three points ahead of Hibs in the SWPL table heading into this week's clash.
"The previous two derbies in this season have been fine margins. There’s not been much between the teams and that’s carried on throughout the season. When you look at all the stats in the league — the points or goals for and against — it’s all very close. It all points to a tight, tough contest on Friday.
"The Derby sells itself. [Hearts are] our closest rivals in the city. On top of that, we are evenly matched in the league and both fighting for that fourth spot. It’s an important game but they all are. It’s just another game for us, but with that wee bit added spice because it’s a derby."
As announced last month, the post-split Edinburgh Derby fixtures will take place at Oriam and Meadowbank — rather than Tynecastle Park and Easter Road, respectively.
"The fan engagement is a little bit different since the games aren’t at the main stadia for both clubs," said Scott. "But sometimes in a tighter, compact venue where the crowds are a bit closer to the pitch it’ll add that wee bit extra volume as well.
"It’s always different playing under the lights at any level and I don’t think this is any different. On top of that again, it’s a derby match on a Friday night. Both teams have done great in coordinating the whole thing together and it’s commendable from both parties that we have managed to agree to the change of date. It makes for a slightly different occasion."
Scott also discussed squad fitness and player availability ahead of Friday night's bout.
"There's no massive changes. A couple of niggles here and there. A couple of players we are managing through this week. We’ll need to give them the time to get closer to kick-off to decide if they are fit or not. Nothing to be too worried about."
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