Hibs 1-1 HNK Rijeka: All to play for in second leg after breathless Easter Road encounter
The Easter Road side peppered Nediljko Labrović’s goal in both halves with Lewis Stevenson hitting the post and Jamie Murphy and Kevin Nisbet hooting straight at the 21-year-old ‘keeper in the opening 45 minutes.
Nisbet must have thought he’d levelled as he headed goalwards from close range but Labrović pulled off a fine save, only for Boyle to smash home the rebound.
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Hide AdDaniel Mackay had a glorious chance to score the winner when he was sent through one-on-one by substitute Scott Allan but Labrović stood up well and denied the summer signing a stunning winner for Jack Ross’ side.
Hibs should feel confident when they travel to Croatia next week – although there will be a feeling that they could have, and maybe should have, made life a lot easier for themselves.
Relive the action below.
HIbs v HNK Rijeka
Just not quite coming off for Hibs in the middle of the park at the moment - passes just a wee bit too heavy, that sort of thing. Mind you, Rijeka have sent a few balls out of play too
Macey has to be alert to make sure an effort from just inside the box from Tomecak goes wide - corner Rijeka.
Abass continually trying to find Vukcevic with crossfield balls - but most of them are going over his head so far. Looks like the visitors reckon they’ll get more joy down the Hibs’ left.
CHANCE!
Best chance of the game so far from Hibs as Magennis does well and funnels it out to McGinn, who finds Boyle and the Australian internationalist’s effort is beaten away by Labrovic from close range. Shouts for a handball as Rijeka clear it but the referee not interested.
CHANCE!
Murphy teed up nicely by McGinn but his shot lacks power and is straight at Labrovic. Hibs beginning to ask questions of Rijeka after a clunky start.
Ooooh. Drmic inches away from latching onto a through ball from Abass, but Macey is out rapidly to snuff out the danger.
Murphy is dispossessed in the centre circle by Abass but the winger goes hurtling after the Ghanaian and tackles him on the touchline.
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