Ross Laidlaw says Dumbarton victory was ‘massive’ for Hibs

Hibs keeper Ross Laidlaw was happy with his own performance in yesterday’s 1-0 win over Dumbarton but he insisted that taking the 3 points was more important than personal glory.

The former Raith Rovers goalkeeper retained his place despite first choice Ofir Marciano returning from injury and he rewarded Neil Lennon’s faith in him with a fine performance and a clean sheet.

Hibs took an early lead through on-loan Kris Commons and Laidlaw produced several vital saves to help secure the victory.

After beating nearest rivals Dundee United last week, everyone connected to the club recognised the importance of not slipping up at the cheaper Insurance Direct Stadium and with United drawing at home to Queen of the South it turned out to be a very good day for Neil Lennon’s men.

The results meant that Hibs are now six points clear of United and have a vastly superior goal difference.

Whilst no-one wants to tempt fate there is a feeling around Easter Road that Hibs are on their way back to the top flight.

After the game Laidlaw told Hibernian TV:  “It was a massive result beating Dundee United last week and we knew that this would be a tough game. The pitch isn’t great and the boys did really well to grind out the three point and another clean sheet.

“The manager (Neil Lennon) said I’d done really well which was nice to hear that from him.

“I though I did well today. Sometimes you don’t have anything to do and sometimes you have a few saves to make so it was good to make a few saves and keep a clean sheet. Obviously the three points were massive for the team  today.

“The main thing is keeping a clean sheet and getting the win. You want to show what you can do but sometimes, especially at Easter Road teams sit in and you don’t have a lot to do so it’s good sometimes coming away from home and getting a few saves.

“After the game the manager said that we are not going to play pretty football all the time and getting the result is the most important thing.

“It wasn’t the greatest performance today although we did have chances.”

Laidlaw also paid tribute to commons whose emergency loan contract runs out today and the keeper is hoping that he will remain at Easter Road at least until the end of the season.

He continued: “Kris (Commons) has been brilliant in the four games he has played and it’s been good for the dressing room as well. The boys have really taken to him so hopefully he can stay.”