The wee Hibees got back to winning ways with an impressive 4-2 victory over Kilmarnock at Rugby Park on Tuesday night.
Dean Cleland was the hat-trick hero on the night, with Harry Wright also on target as the Hibees ran out impressive 4-2 winners over the league leaders.
Harry Wright got the opening goal midway inside the first half. The forward latched onto an inch-perfect pass from deep before showing great composure to dink the ball over Kilmarnock ‘keeper Corey Armour.
The game came to life in the second half with Dean Cleland doubling our advantage five minutes into the second period. Rory Whittaker did brilliantly down the right-hand-side to make space for himself before picking out Cleland in the penalty area. The striker’s header was initially saved but he was on hand to smash in the rebound from close range.
Credit to the hosts, however, who never gave up and got themselves back in the game from the penalty spot – with Grant Marchant converting just after the hour mark.
Kilmarnock then levelled things up through Reuben Cooper who rose highest in the Hibs penalty area to nod home at the back post.
But the wee Hibees showed their fighting spirit and retook the lead with ten minutes to play. Once again, Dean Cleland showed great determination to chase after a ball over the top before firing past the Kilmarnock ‘keeper on the half volley for his second and the Hibees third goal of the game.
Cleland wrapped up his hat-trick moments later – this time heading home from inside the six-yard box to round off an excellent counter attacking move and a well deserved victory on the road.
Full-time: Kilmarnock U18s 2 Hibs U18s 4
Hibs U18s Starting XI: Mallon, Wright, Whittaker, Bulloch, McAllister, Cleland, Molotnikov, McGarva, Smith, Calder, McGrath.
