Why star man Joe Newell believes Hibs players can look back with pride and forward with optimism

Hibs have suffered a couple of disappointments in recent matches but, dropped points against Dundee United and Rangers should not be allowed to distract from the standard of performances being produced by the team, according to one of this season’s stand-outs, Joe Newell.

Midfielder Joe Newell has been a key contributor in Hibs' positive form this season and he is convinced there is better to come in the new year. Photo by Mark Scates / SNS Group

Having had to settle for a draw against the Tannadice men last weekend, on Saturday, they again walked off the park feeling short-changed, this time against title favourites Rangers, but Newell believes there is better to come as the players and staff continue to look for improvements.

“We came out in the second-half and had a bit of a go at them. I don’t think anyone would argue with that. I think we were probably the better team in the second-half and we tried to force the initiative a bit more and had the better chances. It was disappointing because we wanted to get something and I think we deserved that.

“But, there are positives for us to take. Our general play over the last month or six weeks has been brilliant and we have two massive games now before a little bit of a break and we just want to try to keep going and keep the form going.

“I think everyone will be proud of themselves, I know the gaffer is.

“We’ve had a good year since the gaffer came in...the team had a good start to the season and performances like this give us confidence that we can kick on next year and be up there at the top of the table.

“It’s been a good first half [to the campaign] and we’ll continue to be positive going forward.”

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