Aaron Essel blasted Carey’s free kick into the box and it went straight to Penrice’s arm. After giving up a penalty in Thursday’s Europa Conference League encounter against Petrocub, it was the second penalty the former Livingston defender had given up this week.

As usual, BBC Scotland’s Sportscene Scottish Premiership highlights show examined the weekend’s events, and the commentators had varying opinions about the choice. Michael Stewart, a former Hearts midfielder, says he thinks the decision to concede against the Jambos’ left back was “harsh.”

It’s just the motion of running, and I find it harsh personally’, he said. “I thought that during the week was a harsh one as well. He’s just running to get himself back into an area. When you watch it in real time, he doesn’t adjust his stride; his arms are just running basically and it catches his elbow. The ball is flicked from what? A yard away.

week, and I’m not shocked that it was mentioned there, but in my opinion, Penrice hasn’t done anything illegal.”

Scott Allan, a former midfielder for Hibs, stated that he believed it was likely the right call, saying, “I would say it was a penalty.” I believe St Johnstone would have an opportunity to score if Penrice’s arm hadn’t been in the way. Carey put in a wicked ball, and I believe it was a penalty.

Penrice was praised by Stewart, who stated: “He’s been, if not Hearts’ best player, then one of Hearts’ best players in what has been a disappointing campaign so far.” However, the conversation was not just about penalties. He has consistently demonstrated a willingness to advance, and he and Spittal have begun to gel down the left. He never backs down from a challenge, even though it was obvious that today would be difficult. While others might be content to sit a left back and stay out of the game, he is constantly searching for the ball and trying to go and make things happen. He has genuine passion and a constant desire to advance.
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