Hibs head coach David Gray was delighted with his players’ away performance as they beat Aberdeen 2-1 yesterday.
But he admitted that he and his defenders were disappointed not to keep a clean sheet.
Goals from Thibault Klidje and Elie Youan sealed the three points, in a game that felt more comfortable than the scoreline suggests.
Gray’s men dominated the proceedings at Pittodrie and created a number of chances that could’ve made the scoreline much greater.
When speaking after the game on Hibs TV, Gray analysed his side’s performance.
“It’s a massive three points and a massive win. It’s a difficult place to come but we thoroughly deserved the win because of our fantastic away performance.
“I thought we could’ve been more clinical and had more belief in the final third, and that would’ve made the game more comfortable at the end. The last couple of minutes of the game were pretty bizarre, thinking you’re 3-0 up and then all of a sudden it’s 2-1 and you’re having to defend your box.
“I was a little disappointed we didn’t keep a clean sheet, I’ve got four or five players in there gutted they didn’t get a clean sheet, but that’s a very good place to be.
“I’m delighted with the result and the performance, and the players did everything I asked of them. Winning consecutive games is not an easy thing to do. Back-to-back wins is a brilliant place to be ahead of Wednesday.”
Dan Barlaser picked up the Premier Sports Man of the Match award after a stunning performance in the middle of the park, and Gray left special recognition for his midfield three.
“I thought they were excellent. We had a really good blend in there today and they did what we asked them to do. We wanted to get at Aberdeen today, and the players did well to implement the game plan.
“Our energy levels and desire to get after them was excellent. Dan (Barlaser) was there to control the game too when we needed him too, which was great.”
That’s now two goals in two starts for Thibault Klidje, and Elie Youan’s first since August. Gray believes those goals will do their confidence a world of good.
“Strikers want to score goals; that’s two in two for Thibault and I’m delighted for him. You can see what he gives you, he’s a threat the final third, always on the last line and looking to get in behind. He could’ve got a second in the second half.
“I was able to bring on strength in depth all over the pitch. Elie came on as a sub, which was needed to stretch the game. Elie showed what he’s got; that pace, power and technique to hurt people. It’s good for him to be back involved, back on the pitch and affecting the game.
“All the subs today impacted the game, and that’s what we will need moving forward.”
