Edinburgh | Hibernian boost their European hopes

Hibernian 3 - 1 Dundee United 

A very important three points for Hibs.

Author: Sean M

Stadium/Location: Easter Road

Early goals from Martin Boyle and Mykalo Kuharevich set Hibernian on course for a vital victory at Easter Road

Dwight Gayle’s late header sealing a result that keeps their European hopes very much alive. Kristijan Trapanovski had briefly reignited Dundee United’s challenge.

Had it not been for a superb double save from Jack Walton, denying both Kuharevich and Junior Hoilett, the damage at half-time might have been even greater for United. But the visitors emerged for the second half rejuvenated, with Jim Goodwin’s double substitution sparking an improvement in tempo and intent. Glenn Middleton injected much-needed urgency, and Trapanovski’s thumping finish gave the travelling support hope.

That hope might have been realised were it not for Jordan Smith’s brave intervention, the Hibs goalkeeper diving at the feet of Mane Adegboyega to prevent what looked a certain equaliser.

READ MORE | News from across Edinburgh on European Super Football

With Aberdeen losing to St Mirren, Hibs now sit three points clear in the race for Europe. Their seventh consecutive home win is a testament to their form at Easter Road. Dylan Levitt and Nectar Triantis dictated the rhythm in midfield, while Boyle, Kuharevich and Hoilett found generous space to exploit and frequently threatened to overrun United.

United contributed to their own downfall with defensive lapses in the opening stages. Declan Gallagher lost his footing inside the six-yard box for the opener and never quite recovered. As poor as United were before the break, they showed far greater resolve in the second half. Their sizeable and vocal support urged them on in search of an equaliser that ultimately proved elusive.

Hibs will feel the result was deserved. Ryan Strain’s goal-line clearance to deny Josh Campbell kept United within reach, but Gayle’s well-taken header finally put the contest beyond them.