THE SWING OF HEARTS

Derby hero Halkett reveals celebration came about after a hole in one at sponsors’ golf day

- CRAIG SWAN AT TYNECASTLE

CRAIG HALKETT took a golf club to Hibs as the best moment of his Hearts career got Tynecastle swinging.

The defender sparked scenes of mass jubilation amongst the delirious home fans in Gorgie with his dramatic injury-time winner.

Halkett’s strike wasn't just an unforgettable first goal in the fixture for the stopper in over six years at the club, but it also ensured top spot in the table for his high-flying team going into the season's second international break.

If Derek McInnes’ team are trying to play down title talk, they are going the wrong way about it with a third stoppage-time winner of the season showing they have the character and never-say-die spirit to go with their ability.

Halkett’s guided-volley finish from sub Sabah Kerjotas cross was sublime and, as he sprinted down the touchline amid bedlam in the stands, he still had just enough clarity of mind to take a second to tee-up a pal for his own special celebration.

Tottenham’s James Maddison mimics a darts throw for a goal celebration, but it was a golf swing for Halkett as he explained the background with a smile.

He said: “It's a funny story, actually. We had a Hearts sponsors’ golf day up at the Fairmont at St Andrews a few weeks ago and I played with a boy, big Greg, who is a Hearts season-ticket holder and he got a hole-in-one when he was in my group.