Neither side looked like scoring in the first half although we did threaten early on thanks to an O'Brien shot from distance following a poor clearance from the 'keeper. Kello scrambled back to clear on that occasion and by the time Stewart tapped into an empty net - vacated thanks to a rush of blood to Ruddy's head - shortly before half time, Hearts possibly deserved their lead on the balance of play.
Craig checks out the opposition
After the break we looked more aggressive in going forward although we failed to create many openings. Kello got a good hand to a poked effort from Jutkiewicz in the second half but despite several balls bouncing around the Hearts box, they managed to defend desperately when needed.
Late on we peppered the penalty spot with a series of crosses from set pieces and open play but only Craigan was blessed with a sight of goal and his half-hearted header drifted wide. Hearts were non-existent as an attacking force in the second period but then they didn't have to do anything of note. They had the break thanks to Ruddy's earlier error and were content to hold on.
The wall did its job
We probably deserved a draw from this game but Hearts converted their chance while we could not find a way past Kello. There was little between the teams but the effort on display here suggests we should fancy our chances of getting something on Saturday. However, more work is needed on the attacking side if we are truly to trouble any SPL defence and ease our fears about a collapse towards the relegation zone.