Martin Boyle accepts that yesterday’s defeat to KF Malisheva “was not acceptable” and fell far below the standards of Hibernian Football Club.
Nathan Lowe, Owen Elding and Miguel Chaiwa all had chances but it was the hosts that kept their nerve in front of goal.
A first-half strike from Kreshnik Uka gave the hosts the advantage in the UEFA Conference League Second Qualifying Round first leg meeting in Pristina, before a stoppage-time finish from Valmir Nafiu doubled Malisheva’s lead heading into the second leg.
Speaking to Hibs TV after the match, Boyle said: “[It was] a half-hearted performance, if I’m honest. We lost every second ball. The goals we lost were not acceptable for this Football Club.
“The reception we got at the end was worthy. We know the standards that are set at this Football Club. We didn’t meet those demands. Obviously, speaking, having been here before – being there in Santa Coloma, away in Andorra – it is a real test of character for the boys next week.
“We’ve still got a big 90 minutes to play, and it’s up to us to put it right.
“We had a couple of chances, one off the line, and Miguel [Chaiwa] had one from about 15 yards. So, we made it difficult for ourselves and didn’t defend as well as we normally do. It’s a test of character for the boys next week.
“We need to show a lot more grit, like [KF Malisheva] did today. They wanted it more, simple as that. It feels like we just came here and expected to win, and a lot of people thought we would. They won with 5-0 last week, and they were coming in here with great confidence.
“I’m hoping that was our one poor result of the season. We’ll sit down and reflect on the game, and we’ll take what’s coming our way because there’s no doubt there’s a backlash coming our way, and we have to accept that – and only we as players and staff can make it right.
“I’m sure we will do that next week and make it back up to the fans.”
Boyle also touched on the importance of our support at Easter Road next Thursday for the second leg as the lads look to overcome a two-goal aggregate deficit to make up for a forgettable first-leg performance.
“No doubt in my mind there’ll be a big reception for us next week,” he added.
“I appreciate all the money that they’ve spent to come out here. I know it’s very difficult with the holidays and all that coming their way in a busy summer.
“The fans have been exceptional. We certainly appreciate their support, and we will make it right next week.”
