Magennis impact, heavy-going Hibs, galling for Gullan - 3 talking points from Hibs 3-1 Brora Rangers

There were many talking points from Hibs’ 3-1 Betfred Cup win over Brora Rangers, with eight changes to the starting line-up, debuts for three players, and the fact the hosts should have been out of sight by half-time.

Hibs made heavy-going of getting a win against Brora Rangers

Magennis energy

Kyle Magennis was only on the pitch for around half an hour after coming on as a sub but the new signing showed glimpses of why Hibs handed him a five-year deal and were o keen to acquire his services.

The midfielder came on for the more defensive-minded Stephen McGinn and buzzed about in the final third, eager to get on the ball and make things happen.

He presumably still has some way to go before reaching full fitness after his lengthy injury lay-off but his energy and eagerness to be involved suggest he will be a fine addition to Jack Ross' squad.

Heavy-going Hibs

If Hibs had taken their chances in front of goal they would have posted a far greater scoreline.

As it was, a mixture of misfortune and good goalkeeping foiled the Easter Road side with Darren McGregor, Jamie Gullan, Melker Hallberg, and Drey Wright all going close.

While it may be a concern that Hibs made such heavy work of seeing off a team four divisions beneath them, on another night every near-miss might have ended up in the net.

It will be interesting to see how this match impacts on the line-up and tactics selected for Saturday's trip to Cove Rangers.

Galling for Gullan

Jamie Gullan has perhaps seen less action so far this season than he might have wanted to, thanks in part to the form of Christian Doidge and Kevin Nisbet.

The youngster started up front and in the opening exchanges hooked an effort just wide, and went close on numerous other occasions.

The coaching staff were clearly encouraging him to keep probing and only a fine save from Joe Malin denied him a late goal after a mazy run took him past half the Brora team.

He may feel frustrated at failing to find the net but there were a lot of good things about his performance.