Hibs produce dazzling tribute display
SAM MARTINEZ was honoured at Easter Road yesterday, with every Hibernian player sporting a black armband following the much-loved supporter’s passing at the grand old age of 106 this week.
An affable, effervescent character in life, what a fitting tribute his favourites served up in their magnificent victory over meek Morton.
The hosts turned in a clinical showing against their visitors with Andrew Shinnie, Grant Holt and Brian Graham all opening their accounts in Hibs colours.
In a day of firsts, there was one moment of predictability, with Jason Cummings netting his customary goal to make it six in five appearances for the in-demand attacker.
Frankly, it was four going on eight. Alan Stubbs, the previous head coach, will be rightly revered for bringing the Scottish Cup back to Leith, however his sides could be predictable, wasteful and prone to barren runs of form.
Already, they look like a different animal under Neil Lennon; ruthless, high-tempo and more willing to mix up their style and exploit the flanks.
‘It was very good, a superb performance,’ lauded Lennon.
‘I think, all round, we are getting better. I’m happy — and it takes a lot to make me happy!
‘We had four goals, with four different goalscorers, against a team who were unbeaten coming here and defensively very solid.
‘I wouldn’t say we are the finished article by any means but I’ve no complaints or criticisms after that.’
Taking centre stage on the final weekend of the Edinburgh Fringe, the Hibees seemed determined to put on a show and only a goal-line clearance by Jamie Lindsay denied Holt in the opening exchanges.
A goal was coming, and Shinnie was the man to finally break the deadlock. The onloan Birmingham playmaker ghosted in at the back post to head a delightful Fraser Fyvie delivery beyond Derek Gaston.
It was then 2-0 when Holt powered in his first goal in Hibs colours before Cummings nodded home. Graham got in on the act, bulleting a header into the bottom corner.
HIBERNIAN (4-4-2): Marciano; Gray, McGregor, Hanlon, Stevenson; McGinn, Fyvie, Bartley (Keatings 69), Shinnie; Cummings (Boyle 79), Holt (Graham 65). Subs not used: Laidlaw, Forster, Harris, Crane. Booked: McGregor. MORTON (4-5-1): Gaston (McNeil 71); Doyle, Kilday, O’Ware, Russell; Quitongo (Oyenuga 65), Forbes, Lindsay, Tidser, Nesbitt; Oliver (McAleer 82). Subs not used: Scullion, McDonagh, Tennent, Tiffoney. Booked: Kilday. Referee: Alan Muir. Attendance: 14,508.