Hearts boss Craig Levein praised the creativity of his new-look attack after his side got off to a winning start in the League Cup.

Debut goals from Olly Lee and Steven MacLean saw the Jam Tarts run out 2-1 victors against Highland League champions Cove Rangers on Wednesday.

Seven of Levein's 13 summer recruits started at Balmoor Stadium, but it didn't take long for the Premiership side to find their rhythm.

Former Luton attacker Lee struck after just 11 minutes, with MacLean adding a second after the break.

Paul McManus got one back for the hosts, but Hearts held on to secure three points.

Levein told HeartsTV: "We created numerous chances, had loads of crosses into the box, loads of shots at goal and, bar some excellent defending by Cove, it could've been much easier.

"We should've had the game out of sight fairly earlier in the match but we just missed too many golden opportunities.

"There were some great performances but we just made it a little bit tighter than it needed to be.

"Olly Lee is a creative player and he's got that knack of being able to shoot from distance.

"It was great for Steven MacLean to get a goal too."