Hearts debrief: Andy Halliday impresses, BBC 'regret', Liam Boyce turns spin bowler

Player of the match

There was no standout performer on a tricky night for players. Liam Boyce impressed once again, displaying his intelligence in and out of the box, while the defence kept a third successive clean sheet. But Andy Halliday epitomised what was required at a wind swept Somerset Park. It was a game where free-flowing football was likely to be in short supply. What was required was running, battling, winning those second balls, putting pressure on opponents. Halliday did all of that, while being efficient in possession.

Defining moment

Unfortunately it was a refereeing decision, or two for that matter. It is understandable to wonder if turning down an early shout for a Hearts penalty in the first half was weighing on Steven McLean’s mind when he was forced into a decision shortly after the interval. Liam Boyce turned and appealed to him like a spin bowler pleading to the umpire for a LBW call. An Andy Halliday cross had been diverted on to Jack Baird’s arm via is own leg. Having waved away a clumsy challenge on Boyce in the first few minutes, McLean pointed to the spot. It gave Boyce the chance to score, which he took to secure the win, and left Ayr boss Mark Kerr unhappy.

Ref watch

Not great, Steven. Not great. Corrie Ndaba’s early challenge on Liam Boyce looked like a penalty. By the letter of the law, the once awarded by the official in the second half wasn't because it hit Jack Baird’s arm having deflected off his own leg. Then there was the robust, and late, challenge from Aaron Muirhead on Boyce on the edge of the box right in front of the referee. No foul.

Benefit of hindsight

The BBC’s decision to choose this match for live coverage. You could completely understand it. Games involving Hearts have largely produced goals, the last meeting between the sides saw eight scored, it would attract a sizeable audience and, as Robbie Neilson said, they would be looking for an upset. it wasn’t a fun watch. At all.