Player ratings: Hamilton Academical v Hearts

Sep 1 2008

HAMILTON

Tomas Cerny: Fantastic save from Obua but left exposed by defence for goals. 7

Tony Stevenson: Defending was okay but dead-ball delivery not as lethal as usual. 6

Chris Swailes: Worked well with Elebert until hamstring pull ended day early. 3

David Elebert: Lost Zaliukas for opener but atoned with fine cross for Lyle's goal. 6

Brian Easton: Pounded forward from the left-back area as Accies tried to fight back. 6

Alex Neil: Kept it simple after a slow start and barked orders. A good leader. 6

James McArthur: Poor start but worked his way into the game with tireless effort. 6

Simon Mensing: Moved back for Swailes and made error for Driver's crucial strike. 5

Richard Offiong: Set up McCarthy in first half but no joy in attack. 5

Joel Thomas: Shrugged off ball too easily and gave away possession too cheaply. 4

Lucas Atkins: No genuine impact. 4

Subs:
James McCarthy - early arrival improved Accies, 5.
Derek Lyle - netted with a delightful header, 4.
Marc Corcoran - ran up and down left as Accies rallied, 3.

HEARTS

Marian Kello: Crucial block from McCarthy and excellent bar one unpunished error. 7

Eggert Jonsson: Midfielder deployed at right-back. Caught out once or twice. 6

Marius Zaliukas: No-nonsense defending and headed a priceless opener.7

Christophe Berra: Covered in behind Zaliukas and for his full-backs. Diligent. 7

Lee Wallace: Kept discipline in left-back area. Strong in tackle but passing ropey. 5

Hristos Karipidis: Anchored midfield and was good shield for Berra and Zaliukas. 6

Laryea Kingston: Set-piece delivery not great but almost scored a late third. 7

Michael Stewart: Tackled, passed, closed down and tried to calm game late on. 8

Andy Driver: Drove forward on left and right. Great trickery and finish for second goal. 7

David Obua: Glimpses of ability but still a rough diamond. 5

Jamie Mole: Selfless shift as lone striker. Better vision would've given Driver tap-in. 6

Subs:
Christian Nade - 60-yard walk to give shirt to crowd at end. That's it, 1.
Audrius Ksanavicius - sloppy late pass, 1.
Ruben Palazuelos - on for whistle, 1.

Taken from the Daily Record