Neil Lennon looking for positive reaction from players

Hibs’ Head Coach Neil Lennon is looking for a positive reaction from his players after Tuesday’s Betfred Cup exit at the hands of Queen of the South.

Despite the defeat however, Lennon accepts that the players did little wrong apart from failing to take the many chances they created and he is happy that the team have a chance to rectify things on Saturday in front of a large crowd at Easter Road.

The first priority this season is promotion and Hibs got off to a great start last week, beating title rivals Falkirk 2-1 away from home. They have a chance to make it six points from six with a home tie against the Pars who also won last Saturday.

Speaking to Hibs TV, Lennon said: “It was there for everyone to see. There wasn’t a lot wrong. We didn’t take our chances but we did create good ones so that’s something we have to look at but  it’s difficult to replicate that on the training ground. The players know they have missed easy chances to put Queen of the South away.

“Our reaction to Queen of the South equalising wasn’t great although we weren’t under massive pressure and an individual error cost us the second goal.

“The third goal was academic because we were chasing the game. I’d rather lose 3-1 going for it than sitting in and losing 2-1.

“There was a lot of good things in the game and we had decent control. There was a gap between the teams however we have to handle the mentality of the game better.

“There is an expectation at home and players have to handle that expectation.

“For two days I’ve been stewing. Very frustrated as it was a game that was there for the taking and we have let it slip away.

“The fact that we can turn things around quickly is important. Saturday will be a big home game with a big crowd and the players should embrace it.

“We got off to a very good start in the league and we need to follow that up with another win.

“Confidence hasn’t been damaged too much with the result on Tuesday but I will be looking for a positive reaction.

“I think Dunfermline are a very good team so it should be a good test for us.

“There is a big crowd expected and expectations levels are rising and players should enjoy it.

“We need to make Easter Road a difficult place to come and that’s what we want to achieve here.”