'All that matters is winning' - Hibs fans react to narrow win against Cove Rangers

Hibs fans had plenty to say (not all of it printable) after the Easter Road side huffed and puffed to a 2-1 win against League One side Cove Rangers in the Betfred Cup.

Jack Ross made changes at the interval after a grim first-half showing from Hibs

Daniel Higgins gave the hosts the lead from a free kick but second-half goals from substitute Jamie Gullan and striker Kevin Nisbet ensured there would be no cup upset at the Balmoral Stadium.

Freddie White wrote: “Another really poor performance from Hibs. Fringe players not looking up to it at all. Gullan and Nisbet looked good I thought. But it’s 3 points end of the day and I’ll take that."

Callum CMA added: “Strange circumstances playing amid an international break. However that’s a couple of poor games against opposition who’ve had no competitive games. Enough quality to see us win but fringe players have done nothing to prove themselves, Gullan aside and obviously Magennis who is not fit.”

Andrew McB surmised: “All that matters is winning that Hibs. Big picture: nine players out for various reasons, only 15 fit, still win. Plastic pitches are a farce! Got more minutes into players who haven’t been regular this season. Easily could have chucked it after that first half performance.”

Liam Fogarty said: “Gullan and Magennis made a difference off the bench. Nisbet was good. Plus we keep finding a way to win.”

Robbie Hanratty tweeted: “Certainly a very open game with both teams having chances. Thought the Hibs keeper looked shaky but they changed formation at half time and looked better. Got to fancy Cove for 3 consecutive promotions though now.”

Stacey Morton wrote: “Need to stop with the televised Hibs games, man. They are brutal.”

Steven Blevins said: “[Nisbet] should be in the Scotland squad, banging goals in.”

Graham Ackey added: “Plastic pitches make you have to work hard, no place for them in the Scottish game, can’t afford to maintain a grass pitch, shouldn’t be in the SPFL.”

Last word to JD Hibs who was staying positive: “Another game that was harder that it should have been but 2 wins out of 2 & minutes for fringe players..”