Hibernian climbed off the bottom of the Scottish Premiership after coming from behind to beat Ross County 3-1 at Easter Road. Rain-soaked conditions did not deter the crowd as Elie Youan brought the stadium to life with his performance. The host team’s triumph marks not only their third league win this season but also revitalizes their confidence as they begin to resolve their struggles this term.
The match started ominously for Hibernian as Ross County struck first, with Eli Campbell netting his inaugural goal for the club. The Highlanders made their mark just three minutes in, when Noah Chilvers created havoc for Hibs early on, forcing goalkeeper Jordan Smith to make a splendid save within minutes of kickoff. Following the subsequent corner, Scott Allardice's header rebounded off the post, and Campbell was quick to react, scoring from the tight angle.
Hibs had their chances but struggled to convert. They missed a glorious opportunity to equalize at 15 minutes when Junior Hoilett failed to connect with Nicky Cadden's inviting cross from close range. The home crowd expressed their displeasure at Hibs' inability to command the game during the first half.
Things looked bleak until stoppage time, when Dwight Gayle flicked home Junior Hoilett's expertly placed cross, leveling the score at 1-1. The goal came right when Hibs needed it the most, sparing them from boos at halftime as they trudged off the pitch. It was clear Greig’s tactical plan was kicking in, and the second-half performance promised to be different.
The second half saw Hibernian take charge. The energy shifted as they pressured County repeatedly, showcasing their newfound resolve after the break. This was highlighted when Hibs were awarded their first penalty of the match following George Harman's foul on Gayle. Unfortunately for Hibs, Nicky Cadden's penalty attempt was saved by Ross County's goalkeeper, Jack Hamilton, keeping Hibs at bay with just over 20 minutes to play.
Yet, Hibs did not falter. Just moments later, with renewed determination, they earned another penalty when Ryan Leak was penalized for dragging down Campbell. Youan stepped up for this spot-kick, converting seamlessly by smashing the ball high past Hamilton, marking his contribution to the match's turnaround.
With Hibs leading 2-1, Ross County attempted to rally for another equalizer, but Youan's skill on the ball shone as he created opportunities on the break. He countered effectively, setting up Josh Campbell for Hibs' third goal just before the final whistle. Campbell's finish solidified the victory, allowing Hibs to clinch three pivotal points and leave Ross County shadowed at ninth place.
Hibernian manager David Gray remarked post-match, "We knew with three points today we could go above Ross County, who were sitting eighth -that was the focus. Credit to Ross County, they started the game farbetter than us. But then I thought once we did settle down... we were milesbetter." His praise for the team's character demonstrated their desired mentality shift moving forward.
On the opposite side, Ross County’s manager Don Cowie expressed pride stating, "I believe that's easily the best we've played away from home... the first half was excellent." Cowie recognized the execution of their game plan and wondered where victory would elude them moving forward but left with optimism for their efforts considering the circumstances.
The attended crowd of 14,885 at Easter Road witnessed Hibernian's laudable resilience—a characteristic necessary for making strides up the table. Following this success, they climbed to eighth, climbing above several other teams and easing some of the pressure on Gray's managerial seat.
Looking to the future, Hibernian fans can expect their team to continue building on this momentum. Their next match, against tough opposition at Pittodrie, awaits, which will pose another test of their character.
