John McGinn happy with his goal but aggrieved at penalty decision

Hibs’ midfielder John McGinn was delighted to open the scoring against Dunfermline yesterday with a superb 35-yard strike but he was aggrieved that the Pars were awarded a ‘debatable’ penalty decision in the second half.

The ball struck Lewis Stevenson’s arm but it was kicked from about a yard away leaving the Hibs’ left back unable to get out of the way.

The referee did not blow immediately but after consulting the linesman he pointed to the spot and Kallum Higginbotham equalised.

After the game McGinn told Hibernian TV: ” I was delighted to get the first goal but disappointed not to get the three points. I thought the boys played well overall. It was a difficult pitch and Dunfermline are a good side but we are a bit aggrieved at the penalty decision.

“It was one of these decisions that could have gone either way. The referee didn’t give it. The linesman gave it and they scored but we had chances to win the game.

“Looking at the bigger picture it’s another game ticked off. Obviously Falkirk have won but Morton have lost and we have gained ground on them but we have to be aware of the teams around us.

“I don’t score enough goals but in training all week I have been hitting them well. With the power I have in my left foot I feel as if I should be doing that more often.

“There was no-one happier than me when it found the bottom corner.

“It was good to see Dylan (McGeouch) back. He has had a lot of problems with injuries but he has worked hard.  There is no-one who wants to be out on the pitch as much as him. He is a joy to play alongside.

“We need to get over the line. The press will build the Morton game up next week but we have to focus on the job. If we win the game it would be a massive step toward winning the league. We are thinking of nothing else and hopefully we can get the three points.”