Hibs head coach David Gray believes Rocky Bushiri’s late equaliser against Aberdeen on Tuesday could be a turning point for the remainder of the season.
But he knows that the players will have to build on that result.
He also insisted the mood is high at the Hibernian Training Centre ahead of this weekend’s William Hill Premiership game against Motherwell.
When speaking to the media ahead of the trip to Fir Park, Gray explained what impact that goal has had on his squad.
“We need to take the feeling from that moment and use it as a turning point in the season. We have to build on it at the weekend.
“A lot can come from Tuesday, you know, the belief to turn this around and to answers critics. We know, though, that was just one performance, and we need to back that up against Motherwell.
“We need to start properly and take the positive mindset into the game.”
Gray’s side were beaten 2-1 by Motherwell earlier on this season, conceding a late goal after Nectar Triantis saw red.
“What happened against Motherwell last time is still sore for me to be honest.
“When I watch it back, I find it frustrating because of the decision making in the game.
“Everything they did in that game, we expected. We know they’re a good side, they’ve started the season well, they’re well organised, well coached, and it’ll be a difficult test again.
“We will make sure the players are ready, and the message will be to build on the feeling from Tuesday night. We need to be positive going into the game and go after them.”
One dilemma facing Gray this weekend is who to start in goal.
“I’ve got big decisions to make every week, which is part of having a big squad,” he explained.
“In terms of the goalkeeping department, I understand the scrutiny behind it. Smudge (Jordan Smith) was put into a difficult position on Tuesday night; it was his first game for a long time. He can rely on and use his experience. He’s played at a high level, and he needs to use that.
“I’ve shown a lot of faith in the goalkeepers. I need to give them as much confidence as possible going into every game.”
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.
