Heart of Midlothian face an uphill task to overturn a 4-0 first-leg deficit after Peter Haring watched his former club lose 4-0 to Sturm Graz in Graz on Tuesday night.
What happened in Graz?
Austrian midfielder Peter Haring joined over 1,300 Heart of Midlothian fans in the away end for the Champions League qualifier in Austria. The 33-year-old, who made 126 appearances for the Jambos between 2018 and 2024, savoured the atmosphere despite the heavy defeat. Sturm Graz’s second-half burst sealed a commanding lead heading into next Tuesday’s second leg at Tynecastle.
Heart of Midlothian created chances but failed to convert, while Sturm Graz took theirs. The Austrian side now travel to Edinburgh with a commanding advantage and a real chance to progress to the next round.
Why Heart of Midlothian still mean everything to Haring
Haring left Heart of Midlothian in 2024 to return to Austria, but his heart remains firmly in Gorgie. He called Tynecastle “definitely one of the best atmospheres I’ve ever experienced” after watching from the stands in the 2023 Conference League win over Rosenborg, when Cammy Devlin scored twice to spark a dramatic comeback.
The midfielder spoke to Scottish media inside the Merkur Arena after the 4-0 loss. “My favourite European game was from the stands because I was injured - it was the Rosenborg game when Cammy Devlin scored a double,” he said. “At Tynecastle, anything can happen.”
Haring made 126 appearances for Heart of Midlothian after Craig Levein signed him in 2018. His six years at the club were split by injuries, but he insists the club will always hold a special place in his heart.
What comes next for Heart of Midlothian?
The second leg at Tynecastle next Tuesday offers a glimmer of hope, but the deficit is steep. Haring believes even a one-goal deficit could spark another Tynecastle miracle. “If they went back home this week with a draw or even keep it to one goal, I think everything is possible at Tynecastle,” he added.
Heart of Midlothian’ title heartbreak in May still stings for Haring. He messaged former teammates after the final-day loss and reiterated his lifelong support for the club. “There were many good, but also many bad moments for me personally, for the club,” he reflected. “But when I think back, I always see the good.”
Haring is heading back to Scotland later this year to begin his UEFA B Licence coaching badge. His return to Tynecastle as a fan underlines the bond that endures long after his playing days ended.
