Hearts suffered their first defeat of the season with Kerr McInroy playing a key role in Dunfermline’s 2-1 win at East End Park.
The midfielder moved on loan to Dunfermline in the summer on a season long deal and outshone the big names in the Hearts side.
McInroy turned in a classic performance from central midfield, contesting every ball, back-tracking when needed and getting forward to support his team-mates in attack.
Hearts arrived in Fife with a 100% record for the season across the Championship, Betfred Cup and Scottish Cup and more than met their match against the Fifers who have taken 13 points from their first five matches. With the season reduced to 27 matches the margin for error has been reduced with Hearts due back at East End Park later in the season.
After a goal-less first half the Pars struck twice in the opening 10 minutes of the second half with goals from a deflected Dom Thomas shot followed by a header from Euan Murray.
66 | #DAFC v @jamtarts | 2-0
McInroy effort is deflected for a corner on right. Thomas to take and Gordon punches clear. Fon Williams nearly at the half way line to make a clearance!!#COYP— Dunfermline Athletic (@officialdafc) November 20, 2020
Dunfermline had chances to extend their lead but a header by Stephen Kingsley from a corner in the 3rd minute ensured a nervy finish with referee Don Robertson deciding to play an extra five minutes.
The home side survived without any real scares with McInroy picking up great experience while showing that he is capable of playing at a very high level against a club with a wage bill that is likely to be higher than half of the sides in the top division.