Jack Ross hailed his Hibs side’s defence after another clean sheet in their 0-0 draw with Motherwell.
Hibs didn’t really get going in attack against the Steelmen in Leith but another strong defensive display meant that Hibs remain unbeaten with 10 points from a possible 12 in their opening four fixtures, not conceding from open play either.
It has been a return to consistent form for Paul Hanlon whilst Ryan Porteous has returned to the side alongside him. At right-back, Paul McGinn has looked solid, whilst Josh Doig has burst onto the scene on the other side.
It’s been a strong start to the campaign and they remain top for now, although Rangers could leapfrog them with a win over Livingston this afternoon. Next up for the Hibees is a trip to St Johnstone.
Whilst not quite as free-flowing in attack compared to previous outings this term, a strong team performance at the other end secured a share of the spoils for Hibs, Ross insisting that his team must be very pleased with their 2020/21 start.
“It’s frustrating in that we didn’t play as well as we can but the players showed terrific work as a defensive unit,” said Ross (Hibs TV). “To take 10/12 points at the start of the season is a very good start and the players deserve a lot of credit for that.
“I don’t think we were good in possession of the ball, it’s not like us. Consequently it’s difficult to create that much when you don’t keep the ball long enough. Paul Hanlon, Ryan Porteous, Paul McGinn, Josh Doig and Lewis Stevenson when he’s came on the pitch have all been at a good level.
“I’m delighted for them as they received criticism last year, probably deservedly so, in terms of the numbers. But the numbers this season have been good, it’s just remembering that we need to do the other sides of the game as well and normally we are good at that.
“If we flipped it and we drew the opening game 0-0 and won the following three, we’d be standing here waxing lyrical. We have to remember that as overall it’s been a very good start for us.”