Hearts boss Jim Jefferies has urged his players to clinch a top-six place against Kilmarnock at Tynecastle on Saturday. Dundee United's 1-0 win over St Johnstone on Monday night means that a point against the Ayrshire side will be enough to keep the Gorgie club in the top half of the Clydesdale Bank Premier League ahead of the split.

The Hearts manager, however, is looking for his side to secure a top-half finish with a win.

"The result in Perth was obviously a wee boost for us but I knew it was a difficult match for St Johnstone," Jefferies told Hearts News.

"We only need a point against Kilmarnock now but that's not how we'll be approaching the game.

"We need the victory as not only will that get us into the top six but it is also important that we try to close the gap on the teams above us.

"We have a great opportunity now and if we can't take it, then we don't deserve to be in the top six.

"It's time for us to finish the job."