Hibs debrief: Wingbacks shine as the real Martin Boyle stands up

The Hibs juggernaut rolls on despite last week’s call-off showing no signs of slowing down.

All smiles from Hibs' wingbacks as Chris Cadden congratulates Josh Doig on his first senior goal in green and white

The last time the Easter Road side won four straight league matches was in October 2018. Jack Ross’ side could better that next weekend against Motherwell as the Hibs head coach finally appears to have found a formation and tactics that suit his players.

A big part of Hibs’ current success is the performances of wingbacks Chris Cadden and Josh Doig. Cadden’s energy on the right allows Martin Boyle to terrorise opposition defences from a centre-forward role, and it also alleviates the defensive pressure on Doig if he’s played as a full-back.

The youngster is improving with each passing game and Cadden might well be one of the best signings in recent seasons.

Boyle also seems intent on making up for lost time after his spell of indifferent form – five goals and one assist in his last four games is his best return in a Hibs shirt to date.

Player of the match

Doig just beats Boyle for this. Boundless energy on the left flank, got an assist for the opener, and scored his first senior goal for Hibs. His smile as he celebrated his strike said it all.

Defining moment

The red card. Hamilton were in the ascendancy beforehand and were probably unlucky not to be ahead. The sending-off tipped the pendulum back towards Hibs, and how.

Referee watch

Craig Napier certainly had an eventful first match at Easter Road, sending Jamie Hamilton packing after 12 minutes but keeping his cards in his pocket until late on when he booked Darren McGregor and Brian Easton. Penalty award was probably the right call but might a yellow card have been sufficient punishment for Hamilton’s challenge on Boyle?

In case you missed it…

Near the final whistle, as Hibs defended a set-piece, McGregor was heard to yell, “Win the f****** ball.” It’s straightforward but having someone with that mentality in the team is a big reason why Hibs have improved in recent weeks.

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