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Robbie Neilson made four changes to the team following the Scottish Cup semi-final victory at Hampden, with Aaron McEneff, Gary Mackay-Steven, Taylor Moore and Josh Ginnelly all handed starts in a 3-4-3 formation.

CRAIG GORDON 7/10

Reaction save to deny Nicky Clark from point-blank range a few seconds before United’s goal was outstanding. Another smart stop to keep out Freeman.

Ellis Simms scores the winner for Hearts

TAYLOR MOORE 5

Right-sided centre-back was troubled by United’s pace and direct running on the counter attack, especially early on. Booked late in the first half. Distribution erratic.

TOBY SIBBICK 7

After a ropey opening 15 minutes in the middle of the back three, the young Englishman steadied himself and improved as the game went on. Seems more comfortable in the middle.

ALEX COCHRANE 7

Played in the back three and beaten too easily for United’s opener but recovered very well. Set up Ginnelly’s goal and has looked increasingly assured in recent weeks.

NATHANIEL ATKINSON 7

Fizzing low cross led to equaliser for Boyce before half time. The Australian international put in a shift for his team down the right-hand side.

PETER HARING 8

Recovered from being megged for United’s goal to control the middle of the pitch. Made key defensive interventions too. Deserves new contract.

AARON MCENEFF 6

Handed a rare start in the middle of midfield, the Irishman had a decent shot over the bar before limping off injured after 15 minutes.

GARY MACKAY-STEVEN 6

Back in the team on the left of midfield, the former United man didn’t really stand out but can be satisfied with his contribution.

JOSH GINNELLY 8

After waiting patiently for a start, the forward gave Robbie Neilson a timely reminder of his capabilities. Bright, direct and threatening. Showed composure to score and could easily have had a hat-trick.

LIAM BOYCE 7

Long overdue goal will do him the world of good. Ever willing even if it didn’t always go his way, he provided Hearts with a physical presence and focal point in attack.

BARRIE MCKAY 8

Relished his free role, finding space to create openings and be inventive. Beautifully-weighted through balls were a joy to behold.

SUBS

BEN WOODBURN 6

For McEneff 15 minutes. Short of match practice and forced to play a central midfield role, the on-loan Liverpool man kept trying even when things didn’t quite come off. Booked late on.

ELLIS SIMMS 7

For Ginnelly 72mins. One chance, one goal. The in-form striker’s match-winning finish was another sweet strike. A revelation since joining in January.

Hearts: How they rated against Dundee United