Hearts have overpowered everyone but Motherwell at Tynecastle this season with their aggressive, all-action play which forces teams to defend their own box constantly.
Derek McInnes’ side produced it again here, ending up with 81 entries into United’s final third and delivering 21 crosses. However, this time they finished with just two shots on target.
Kyziridis’ shot off the post lead to the opener but some of his deliveries were not finished off, and generally the final pass was not quite there.
It will not concern McInnes much after a brilliant start, but if the title is an aspiration then any points spilled is painful.
Part of Hearts’ frustration was down to United’s back three defending their penalty area stoutly, and despite missing key players like Craig Sibbald and Will Ferry, Jim Goodwin’s side impressed.
Panutche Camara was magnificent again in a midfield two, touching the ball more times than any United player and making the most accurate passes too as he constantly got them moving up the pitch amid the heat of the battle.
Like Hearts, though, the final ball or strike was an issue.
Amar Fatah’s skill was clear and his flighted corner for Stephenson was brilliant, but other times his end product was lacking, while Sapsford required slightly more awareness to keep himself onside for the disallowed goals despite an all-round good performance.
United will be satisfied with a draw after conceding the first goal for the sixth straight game.
If they can get their full squad fit then they will be a threat to any side.
