Kilmarnock 1 Hearts 0

Kilmarnock claimed a deserved three points against Derek McInnes’ Hearts on Saturday night with a 1-0 win.

Michael Schjønning-Larsen scored the only goal of the game, tapping home from a few yards out against the Scottish Premiership title hopefuls.

Neil McCann made four changes to his starting XI from last time out at Falkirk. This saw Jamie Brandon, George Stanger, Liam Polworth and Aaron Tshibola in from the off, as all four heavily contributed to the victory.

The first chance of the game fell to Findlay Curtis after a bright start from the hosts. His shot from the edge of the area was deflected as the ball clipped the post before Hearts cleared the danger.

On the 10-minute mark Curtis nearly turned creator with a fantastic jinking run to the byline before picking out David Watson with his cross, but the midfielder mistimed the finish.

It wasn’t long before Killie had a deservedly lead on 17 minutes. A brilliant delivery towards the back post was beautifully met by Schjønning-Larsen who slotted home for his first goal since joining the club at the turn of the year.

Kelle Roos had to be alert at the other end of the pitch as the Jambos looked to his on the counter. The goalkeeper saved well low to his left to deny Braga. Magnusson fired wide of the target a matter of moments later after slack play at the back.

After a stoppage for a head knock following a hefty challenge on Tshibola, Killie were next to go close. This time Joe Hugilll saw his effort saved by Schwolow. Curtis showed great feet shortly before half-time before unleashing a thunderous effort from the left flank, but the shot was held.

After the break, McCann’s side again started the better team. Good pressing by Hugill saw Killie win the ball high in Hearts’ half. It ended with a Kiltie effort going wide of the post, as the boys in blue and white showed their teeth from the off.

Chances were at a premium for both teams during a tense second-half. Roos had little to do but cleared every ball that came into his six-yard box.

And the disco lights were on for Saturday Night Live at the full-time whistle, as the home faithful lapped up a huge three points in front of the Sky Sports cameras.

Crowd: 8,242.

Team: Roos, Brandon, Deas, Stanger, Schjønning-Larsen (Thompson, 69’), Watson (Lowery, 64’), Polworth, Tshibola (Mayo, 88′), Hugill (Watkins, 82’), Kiltie (McKenzie, 69’), Curtis (Thomson, 82’).

Unused subs: Stryjek, Thomson, Anderson, Watkins, Cleșcenco.