Hibernian suffered a 2-1 defeat away to St Johnstone in the Scottish Premiership, a result that leaves the Easter Road side eighth in the table with six points from five games. The club also provided an update on its loan players and saw its reserve side's Challenge Cup fixture postponed, according to reports from STV News, the club's official website, and the BBC.
How did Hibernian lose to St Johnstone?
Josh Fowler's first-half double secured a 2-1 victory for St Johnstone over Hibernian, as reported by STV News. Fowler opened the scoring after 16 minutes and restored the home side's lead from the penalty spot just before half-time, cancelling out Nathan Lowe's 29th-minute equaliser for Hibs.
The visitors improved after the break but could not find a second equaliser. Kanayo Megwa forced a fine save from St Johnstone goalkeeper Toby Steward with a powerful header, while a late chance from substitute Thibault Klidje was blocked. The defeat is Hibernian's third in five league matches this season, leaving them with a goal difference of minus two having scored seven and conceded nine.
Which Hibernian players are gaining experience on loan?
The club's official website reported that six Hibernian players are currently out on loan across the lower Scottish divisions and in Ireland. While midfielder Josh Campbell is yet to make an appearance for St Johnstone, five others have started their spells.
Joseph McGrath, Kieran Gillie, and Robbie Bruce are among those gaining SPFL experience. Their progress is being monitored as they look to develop with regular first-team football away from Easter Road. You can track the availability of the full squad, including loaned players, on our squad page.
What happened with the reserve team's cup match?
A BBC roundup noted that Hibernian's reserve side, Hibernian II, had a Scottish Challenge Cup fixture against Berwick Rangers postponed. The match was among several in the competition's early rounds that did not go ahead as scheduled.
The competition involves teams from across the Scottish football pyramid. The rescheduling means Hibernian's development squad will have to wait for their next competitive outing in the tournament. The club's focus remains on integrating young talent, with several currently gaining vital minutes elsewhere.
What is Hibernian's current league position?
Following the loss to St Johnstone, Hibernian sit eighth in the Scottish Premiership. They have six points from two wins and three losses in their opening five fixtures, with a recent form guide reading loss, loss, win, win, loss.
They are nine points behind early leaders Celtic. The team's next league fixture is a significant one, an away match against Heart of Midlothian on December 27th. Hearts currently sit second in the table, making it a important early-season Edinburgh derby. Fans can view the full fixtures list and the latest standings on our site.
Who is currently unavailable for selection?
The club is currently without defenders Rocky Bushiri and Jordan Obita due to injury. Their absence was felt in the defensive unit during the 2-1 loss at McDiarmid Park.
Manager Simo Valakari will be hoping for a swift return for both players as he looks to solidify his backline. The latest information on player availability can always be found on our dedicated injuries page. Hibernian's next match is the away trip to face their city rivals on December 27th.
