Hibernian Football Club kicked off their 2025 season with an electrifying performance against Rangers, resulting in a dramatic 3-3 draw at their home ground, Easter Road. The match took place on January 5, 2025, and was marked by both teams showcasing intense determination, making it one of the most memorable games this year.
From the whistle, the match appeared to favor the visiting side as Rangers quickly took the lead with two early goals. Hamza Igamane was central to Rangers’ offense, netting three times throughout the encounter. Fans expected the visitors to secure all three points, especially after they led 2-0 within the first 20 minutes and 3-2 as the game approached its final minutes. But Hibernian, known for their tenacity, had other plans.
Hibernian’s rocky start came from mishaps like Rocky Bushiri's risky play with a long ball, which allowed Igamane to capitalize almost immediately, scoring the opening goal with ease. This early blow left home supporters somewhat disheartened. Nonetheless, as the match progressed, Hibs managed to regroup and push back against Rangers’ pressure.
The breakthrough for Hibernian arrived midway through the first half when Martin Boyle scored, drawing the home side closer and lifting the spirits of the fans. With this goal, the team found renewed energy, and they quickly regained their confidence on the pitch.
After halftime, Hibernian continued to push forward, with Josh Campbell driving the ball toward the opposing goal and earning Hibs their second score from the penalty spot. Boyle confidently converted it, sending the majority of the 17,000 strong crowd at Easter Road—their chants echoing across the stadium—into raptures.
Despite their defensive struggles, Hibernian showcased resilience and even flirted with victory as they controlled play for significant periods after leveling the match at 2-2. Lewis Miller and Dwight Gayle came close to scoring again, but the effective Rangers defense thwarted their attempts.
Just as it seemed Hibs could topple their rivals, Moriah-Welsh accidentally gifted possession back to Rangers, allowing them to reclaim the lead late on—much to the frustrations of the home crowd. Yet, Hibernian weren’t done just yet. A powerful header from Bushiri, after a well-executed corner kick led by Nicky Cadden, ensured the hosts left with at least one point.
This exhilarating draw not only marked Hibs' first match of the year but also set the tone for what they hope will be a successful 150th-anniversary season. To celebrate, the Hibernian Supporters Association has contributed new branded corner flags to the club, showcasing the club crest for the first time during this match.
Brian Penman, Chairman of the Hibernian Supporters Association, expressed pride over their contribution: "To mark the beginning of our 150th anniversary year, everyone at the Hibernian Supporters Association is delighted to be able to present these corner flags to the Club, ensuring the spirit and identity of the Hibernian family is present in every corner of Easter Road.”
Ben Kensell, Chief Executive of Hibernian FC, added, “2025 is a really exciting year for the Football Club and we are alllooking forward to celebrating our 150th anniversary when itcomes in the summer.” This celebration underlines the club's enduring relationship with its fanbase and acknowledges their invaluable support throughout the years.
Stevie Thomas, Head Groundsman at Hibernian FC, also shared his appreciation of the new flags. "We are extremely grateful to Brian and the team at the HSA for their support... so to have the Hibernian FC logo present on the corner flags is a great addition for us as we begin our 150th anniversary year."
The excitement surrounding this milestone year for the club is palpable. Not just for the supporters but for the players and entire organization, which is committed to achieving success on and off the pitch. With such thrilling performances to start the new year, supporters are rightfully optimistic about what lies ahead for Hibernian FC.