And for the third game in a row, Robbie Neilson’s men had to come from behind to earn the draw, Inverness CT going ahead early on through Miles Storey. Liam Boyce netted the equaliser late in the half.
The second half was far from an entertaining fare but the league leaders had chances late in the game to win it with Boyce hitting the bar and Gnanduillet and Walker going close but it was too little too late.
The draw takes Hearts 12 points clear at the top ahead of Saturday’s fixtures.
But how did the players rate?
Player ratings scale - 10: One of the best performances you've seen. 9: Outstanding. 8: Very good. 7: Good. 6: Average. 5: Poor, 4: Very poor. 3: A terrible day at the office. 2: Abysmal. 1: One of the worst performances you've seen.
1. Craig Gordon - 7
Was beaten from close range for the opening goal. Made a key save when trailing 1-0 from Sutherland. Photo: Paul Devlin - SNS Group
2. Michael Smith - 5
With Hearts playing narrow at times he was expected to contribute further up the pitch. Was too easily eased off the ball by Miles Storey for the opener. Photo: Ross MacDonald - SNS Group
3. Mihai Popescu - 5
The Romanian was pulled up the park for the first goal. Really should have scored with a header. Photo: Ross Parker - SNS Group
4. Craig Halkett - 5
Had a couple of moments where he was caught in either half and gave ICT with a possible chance. Photo: Mark Scates - SNS Group