THE HAND OF GORD

Veteran keeper pulls off stunning last-gasp stop to seal crucial win for McInnes' table-topping Jambos

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DEREK MCINNES hailed Craig Gordon after the veteran keeper pulled off a stunning stop to help seal a vital victory for league leaders Hearts.

Deep in stoppage time, the 10-man Jam Tarts were leading 1-0 thanks to Claudio Braga’s goal.

And with the seconds counting down, Scotland star Gordon - who had come off the bench just before halftime after Alexander Schwolow was sent off - produced a world-class save to keep out Emile Acquah’s header.

And boss McInnes believes the 43-year-old will continue to make stops of that calibre for as long as he wants to continue playing.

McInnes said: “I thought it was past him, I really did.

“It beats the majority of keepers. It would have been harsh on us considering how well we defended but we're fortunate to have Craig - his experience, know-how and ability at 43 years of age.

“He'll always make those saves for as long as he keeps going.

“There's a lot of motivation for him this season with the World Cup and wanting to stay part of something special here at Hearts.

“But to get up every morning at that age, go to work, to diet properly, to throw yourself about a training pitch and still be ready — that says everything about him.

“He has been really supportive from behind, along with people like Jamie McCart who's had to watch the team win games but still comes in every day and trains properly.

“With Craig, some keepers coming on cold like that, having not played a lot, you'd be a bit concerned.