Can resolute Hearts capitalise on window of opportunity?

A first league defeat of the season at St Mirren shattered the Pittodrie side’s league campaign eleven months after Aberdeen and Celtic were tied at the top of the Scottish Premiership standings.

When Stephen Robinson’s men roared into a 3-1 lead in Paisley on Wednesday, almost a year later, Hearts were eight points clear at the top.

However, Derek McInnes’ side fought back in a thrilling encounter to earn a point, maintain their unbeaten start, and maintain momentum. They did so with a little luck and a lot of resilience.

In the run-up to Pierre Landry Kabore’s late disallowed goal, Oisin McEntee could have had more opportunities.

Hearts could still be 12 clear of Celtic’s lead after their six-point deficit has ended.

McInnes told BBC Scotland, “It’s important we win now against Dundee.” This will be regarded as a worthwhile point if we do it.

Celtic won’t play premiership football this weekend because they will face Rangers in the League Cup last four on Sunday (15:00 GMT).

Hearts, however, are prepared to play Dundee under Stephen Pressley’s guidance on Saturday (15:00), knowing they can increase their lead to nine points with a victory.

The top two play on Sunday the following weekend. Dundee United will host McInnes’ side (15:00), with Celtic starting at home to Kilmarnock an hour later.

Before the reigning champions’ next league game, Hearts might have a 12-point lead.

Of course, neither of the Gorgie clubs’ games can be guaranteed victories. And Celtic will still have a chance to close any remaining gaps if they do.

When asked about the decision to deny St Mirren a 3-1 lead in Paisley, McInnes suggested that his side might have gotten away with one.

When Hearts were defending a long free-kick, the VAR team determined that Mark O’Hara, who was playing an offside position, had an impact on play by blocking Lawrence Shankland’s path.

Miguel Freckleton escaped Hearts’ high line and scored what he perceived to be a third St Mirren goal, but the referee, Matthew MacDermid, whose VAR he reached, reacted with approval.

One of the many set-plays that caused carnage in the Hearts box, McInnes referred to after the game.

The Hearts manager, however, was equally as enthusiastic about referencing the resilient spirit that allowed his side to finish Paisley with a point, extending their 10-game winning streak.

“We’re disappointed with our losses,” McInnes continued. For the first time in history have we appeared susceptible to set-plays.

“Sometimes, St. Mirren places that pressure on you, making poor decisions. However, overall, I thought the game was good.

At the conclusion, I adored the teamwork. Because they believe there is a second goal coming, the supporters continue to support the death.