Joe McBride happy with performance despite narrow defeat in mini derby

Hibernian Under 20 Development Coach Joe McBride was pleased with his side’s performance in last night’s narrow defeat to an experienced Hearts side which contained several first team players including Osman Sow and James Keating.

In contrast Hibs fielded a young side with an average age of 18.8 years although first team regular Jordon Forster (pictured) played 45 minutes as part of his comeback from injury.

Keating gave Hearts the lead after 10 minutes before Scott Martin hit the bar and debutant Aaron Scott went close with a fine effort.

Lewis Allan equalised from the penalty spot in the 55th minute then two minutes later, Conner Duthie made it 2-1 to Hibs.

Keating added his second to level the scores and the game looked to be heading for a draw but Hearts were awarded a penalty in the 92nd minute and Brad McKay converted to settle the outcome.

After the game McBride told Hibs TV: “The only thing I am disappointed in is the result. Apart from the first five minutes I thought we played well. The first goal we lost was poor, but after that I thought we came right back into the game.

“I felt we dominated possession, we played some good football, created good opportunities. It was the final pass, the final ball or not following in from hitting the bar or forcing a save from the goalie didn’t seem to come off. But the only thing I am disappointed in is the result.

“We had a few chances to maybe go and win it, but that’s football. A win for us would not have been an injustice, a draw would have been the fairest result, but Hearts nicked the game and fair play to them.

“It was great, it’s great for the players, we played against Celtic and they named a strong side with a lot of experience. That’s what the players should want every week”

Photo by John Preece