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Sport
Callum Carson

Livingston full-back says players never lost belief as they ended winless run

Match-winner Cristian Montano says the Lions never lost belief in their ability during a three game losing run that was brought to an end with victory over Hearts.

The full-back netted the only goal of the contest just before the half-hour mark and admitted he had no doubt his side would bounce back after enduring a disappointing run of form.

Defeat in a lacklustre performance away to Motherwell was added to by losses against Aberdeen and Dundee United in which the Lions were noticeably sub-par for large spells.

It was the fact they were at their best for the entire 90 minutes against the Jambos that ensured the points stayed in West Lothian, he says.

“What we did from minute one to the end of the game was fantastic. We had a plan we had been working on and collectively we were outstanding.

“We don’t get too high when we win and we don’t get too low when we lose. It is just about being positive because we have shown before how we can perform.”

He added: “Hearts are a great team but we didn’t let them play as we were on the front foot and stuck to our plan. That is something we need to take into every game.

“As long as you impose your game and focus then you have a chance of beating anyone. You have to believe in ourselves and show that we can also play football as well as working hard.

“We have a great bunch of lads and the character in the team is fantastic.”

The 30-year-old has been amongst the top performers for the Lions this term after enduring a challenging campaign last season with fitness and injury concerns.

And he admits the reaction of the Hearts defence made even himself doubt whether he was offside or not.

He commented: “When I first controlled the ball I thought I was onside but the way they run out made me doubt myself a bit. When they all started moaning to the ref I doubted myself more and that’s why I didn’t celebrate.

“In the end it proved to be a good touch, a good finish, a great delivery and a good performance.

“I was surprised how much time I had to bring the ball down. Normally teams are all over you and marking you.

“I actually started out on the left and when I looked at their line and the way they were marking I thought I might as well get myself in the box.”

Next up for Livi is a trip to Celtic Park and the former Port Vale man says they'll need to take that belief into Glasgow, adding: "You always have to believe. Last season we showed that at Celtic Park.

“It was difficult but we managed to grind out a point. Earlier in the season we also managed to beat them and take three points.

“They are a great team and we have to give them respect but we have to go there and try to play our game."

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