Clydesdale Bank SPL, Sunday 6 May 2012 - Tynecastle
Hearts last home game of season 2011/12 saw a rare victory in Gorgie over a St. Johnstone side who have become something of a bogey for Hearts in recent years. The Saints knocked Hearts out of the Scottish Cup in Edinburgh last season, drew in a cup tie earlier this year (although Hearts won the replay in Perth) and won on their last visit to Gorgie on SPL business in December. This time round, however, Hearts always looked in control and recorded a comfortable win which enabled Paulo Sergio's side to leapfrog the Perth Saints to 5th place in the Clydesdale Bank SPL.
Hearts took the lead after 16 minutes following fine play by Ryan McGowan. The Australian full back may be a bit rough round the edges but I've always been impressed by his whole-hearted approach and commitment. His cross into the Saints penalty box found Rudi Skacel and the Czech Republic star - Hearts leading goalscorer - steered the ball past goalkeeper Mannus to put Hearts 1-0 ahead. Skacel had a chance to double Hearts lead soon after but contrived to balloon his effort into the Roseburn Stand. Skipper Marius Zaliukas also missed a glorious opportunity, heading over when it seemed easier to score.
St. Johnstone looked dangerous on the counter-attack and the introduction of Hibby Derek Riordan as a second half substitute was warmly greeted by the home support, eager to show their appreciation for the former Hibs striker...
Hearts scored another 12 minutes into the second half when Andy Webster slid home Danny Grainger's cross and the contest was effectively over. A vital win for Hearts as 5th place in the Clydesdale Bank SPL will mean a place in next season's Europa League.
Top man: Sad to see Darren Barr leave the field due to injury - the former Falkirk player has been a revelation in his midfield role in recent weeks.
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