Hibs secure third for first time since 2005 with victory over Aberdeen

Matt Macey, Martin Boyle, Darren McGregor, and Paul Hanlon celebrate at full time

Christian Doidge’s first-half strike was enough to secure third place for Hibs for the first time since 2005 as they defeated Aberdeen 1-0 at Pittodrie.

The Welshman beat Gary Woods with a fine half-volley four minutes before the break and the Easter Road side’s victory means they now cannot be caught in third, with one game remaining of the Scottish Premiership season as well as the Scottish Cup final.

It is Hibs’ first in in the Granite City since May 2012, and means the team has won a record number of games on the road this season.

Aberdeen might have taken the lead just before Doidge’s goal but Callum Hendry sent his effort high over the bar and almost immediately, Hibs took the lead.

Darren McGregor’s long ball forward was headed by Dons winger Ryan Hedges, but only as far as Josh Doig. The youngster knocked it to Jackson Irvine, whose flick set up Doidge for the opener.

Hendry had a chance to level before the break but Matt Macey was equal to the on-loan St Johnstone man’s header.

Hibs could have had a second shortly after the break but Irvine’s close-range effort skimmed the bar before Hedges fired into the side-netting.

Florian Kamberi also had an opportunity but sent his shot wide and even when Stephen Glass threw on Fraser Hornby and Niall McGinn, Hibs remained resolute in defence.

Hibs substitute Jamie Murphy tested Woods with a low drive late on but despite a late charge from the Dons, Hibs held on to seal a famous win and secure their target of third in the Scottish Premiership, sparking wild scenes at full time.

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