Hearts manager Jim Jefferies last night conceded that if his side are still league leaders at the halfway point of the season the countdown to the title can begin.

The Tynecastle outfit recorded a stunning 5-3 win against Kilmarnock to move four points clear of the top of Scottish Premier Division after 14 games, including 11 victories.

The Hearts boss admitted his make-shift defence looked vulnerable, but felt the quality of football in attack more than compensated.

Stephane Adam led the way with a brilliant hat-trick which earned the Frenchman warm praise.

Jefferies said: "It was the first time I have played Stephane and Thomas Flogel together and it worked well.

"Stephane was top quality and it was one of the most complete hat-tricks any one would wish to see.

"The game was great entertainment for the neutrals, but a nightmare for managers today.

"Because of injuries we were short in defence especially the fullback positions and that showed at times."