Hibernian under-20s are back in action tonight against Hamilton Academical at Livingston’s Energy Assets Arena, kick off 6pm.
With three games remaining, James McDonaugh’s (pictured) side are three points clear of Celtic in the race for the SPFL U20s League title although the Hoops have two games in hand. Rangers are also in contention sitting seven points behind with three games in hand.
Whatever the final outcome, it has been a successful year for the Hibs’ youngsters who have also gained promotion from the Central Taxi’s East of Scotland First Division.
Tom Gardiner, who moved to Hibs from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer has established himself in defence and is enjoying his life north of the border.
The 19 year old told Hibernian TV: “This season has been a great challenge and playing week in, week out with the 20s and playing alongside older players, who have been in and around the first-team has been great.
“It’s a great level and we’ve been doing well in the league and it’s been a great journey throughout the season.”
Tom’s father, James, travelled to Greenock from London last week to watch his son play against Celtic at Cappielow a round trip of 452 miles and the players rewarded him with a fine 2-0 win.
Tom continued: “It was pleasing, he was in two minds whether to come up or not, so it was a good game for him to come up and see.
“It was great to get the second win of the season against Celtic as well and to get the clean sheet. I was pleased for my dad to see it.”
“Playing against Celtic was good, it was what we want to deal with, it’s hard and it’s always a challenge playing Celtic. We dug deep throughout the match and we got the reward at the end of it.
He said: “We’ve always got the chance. If we just kick on with the last three games then you never know what will happen but it was a good win (over Celtic) and we will see what happens come the end of the season.”
Supporters are reminded that admission is via donation to a bucket collection around the ground. If you can head through to Livingston to cheer on the under-20s your support would be greatly appreciated by the players.
Photo by John Preece
http://www.photoboxgallery.com/jlp-photography
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
