Jason is eyeing a Scots opener

JASON CUMMINGS says it is time to open his scoring account in a dark blue jersey after firing in his seventh goal of the season as Hibernian gave an assured performance at Palmerston. The 20-year-old was on the scoresheet in just three minutes, boosting his claim for a starting place in Scotland’s Under-21 side when Ricky Sbragia’s squad reconvenes this week for back-to-back games against France and Iceland. ‘There’s a lot of competition, but I’m confident of starting,’ said Cummings. ‘I feel like I’ve settled into the international set-up now and want to push on and score goals for my country.’ Cummings also provided the defence-splitting pass which set up Hibs’ second, with Liam Henderson on hand to benefit from the strong partnership the former Hearts youth player has formed with Dominique Malonga. The Congolese internationalist was in fine form all afternoon and key to all that was good about Alan Stubbs’ side. Cummings added: ‘Malonga is just different class. ‘He worked his socks off for the team and although he didn’t get a goal himself, he really was important for us. ‘He’s always going to do something when he gets the ball — he’s technically such a good player and a joy to play alongside.’ While the sizeable travelling support saw the very best of Cummings, there was also disappointment when he was hooked midway through the second half having already been booked. ‘I sometimes get a bit caught up in it all,’ said Cummings. ‘I want to win games and score goals — maybe sometimes I put too much pressure on myself and get frustrated.’ The significance of his replacement, Martin Boyle, also getting on the scoresheet for Hibs’ final goal cannot have been lost on the young striker.

ALAN DOUGLAS