ED'S READY TO BE ONE SPL OF A TERROR

HEARTS stand-in boss John McGlynn reckons Edgaras Jankauskas is ready to terrorise the SPL.

The Lithuanian notched the winner against Kilmarnock at Tynecastle last night to keep his side three points clear at the top of the pile.

It was only his second goal since joining the Jambos from Porto in summer and McGlynn believes the player is now ready to go on a goals run.

McGlynn said: "I'd like to think Edgaras will go on a run now because this strike will enhance his confidence.

"His lack of goals has not been getting him down and he has still been leading the line well.

"However, I hope he kicks on from here because he's a true pro, has played at the highest level and like all strikers thrives on goals."

McGlynn praised the character of his side as they recorded their second win on the trot after the shock departure of George Burley.

He added: "The players aren't doing it for me but themselves. They have worked hard to get into this position and want it to continue. Team spirit was a big factor tonight and they showed great desire to get the win.

"Events of the past week have never been far from our minds but they have responded well to a game that was arguably even bigger than our derby against HIbs this weekend as we know what that one is all about."

Killie manager Jim Jefferies was cursing the second-half decision from stand-in ref Stevie O'Reilly not to award his side a penalty after a Danny Invincibile shot cannoned off the arm of Andy Webster.

Jefferies added: "It was a very strong case and though there were a lot of bodies in the way I'm going with the reaction of my players.

"Hearts deserve to be top of the league but will have to play better if they are to go all the way.

"Sometimes you've got to grind out results and they did that against a side that made them work hard for their result."

Match referee Stuart Dougal, who recently underwent brain surgery, was replaced at half-time by O'Reilly after falling ill during the first half.

He was suffering from flu-type symptoms but had recovered well enough by the end of the game to drive home

Taken from the Daily Record