McGregor hopes he isn’t stressed for success this time

HIBERNIAN defender Darren McGregor will take cherished memories of a pivotal success against Dundee United into today’s clash at Tannadice — as the men from Leith try to avoid a potential banana skin.

McGregor vividly recalls their dramatic Scottish Cup semi-final victory over the Tangerines en route to ending 114 years of heartache in the competition.

The fact that Robbie Neilson’s Championship leaders are the opponents in today’s fourth-round tie has kindled memories of that last-four clash in April, 2016.

McGregor describes the nerve-shredding success on penalties as one of his most stressful days in football.

There was the huge talking point even before the game had begun, then manager Alan Stubbs handing portly Conrad Logan a debut in goal — his first senior game in 16 months.

But it was a decision that was fully justified — the Irishman pulling off a series of saves over the course of 120 minutes of goalless action before keeping out two penalties.

Jason Cummings’ failed Panenka spot-kick in the first half of normal time added to the drama.

‘I was asked a little while back about my most memorable game or my most exciting games,’ said McGregor, who played in the historic final as Hibs defeated Rangers 3-2.

‘And I know most people would, obviously, point to the cup final as the most memorable because we won.

‘But the most anxious game was the semi-final.

‘Everybody can remember big Conrad coming in, having not played for several months and then pulling off that display.

‘There were the one-on-ones he saved and then there was his antics in the penalty shoot-out.

‘I remember Stubbsy saying: “Who wants to take a penalty?” I think I was actually behind big Conrad in the pecking order! I missed one at Under-14s and it has scarred me since.’ Today’s clash has all the makings for a classic. United, who will be spearheaded by 25-goal striker Lawrence Shankland, are brimming with confidence after opening up a 17point gap in the Championship. While Hibs look to be heading in the right direction under Jack Ross, they could be ring-rusty in their first game back since the threeweek Premiership shutdown.

‘They’re a massive club and for an outsider looking in it looks a great club to play at,’ noted McGregor (left).

‘Shankland can’t seem to stop scoring. I have seen him and he’s got a bit of everything.’

Meanwhile, Hibs narrowly failed in a bid to lure cup hero Liam Henderson back to Easter Road. However, Empoli have won the battle to sign the 23-year-old on loan from Hellas Verona.