Hibernian's 3-1 defeat to city rivals Hearts in the Edinburgh derby has prompted a period of reflection at Easter Road. The loss leaves the club seventh in the Premiership with six points from four games, a position they will aim to improve upon starting with a trip to St Johnstone.
What did Josh Mulligan say about the derby loss?
Midfielder Josh Mulligan offered a frank assessment of the defeat in comments reported by the Daily Record. He stated that Hearts were simply hungrier and better in the first half, a period where Hibs failed to win their individual battles. Mulligan acknowledged the team's improved second-half performance was undone by Jack Iredale's red card, which allowed Hearts to regain control and secure the win.
The 23-year-old stressed the importance of the squad's character in responding to the setback. He insisted the group contains enough leaders to bounce back quickly, with the immediate focus turning to the upcoming fixture against St Johnstone. This match presents a key opportunity for David Gray's side to halt a run of two consecutive home defeats.
Why did Warren O'Hora leave Hibernian?
Former Hibs defender Warren O'Hora has explained his deadline-day move to Leicester City, as covered by the Edinburgh News. The 27-year-old centre-back, who became a fan favourite during his two years in Leith, joined the Foxes for an undisclosed fee to work again with manager Russell Martin. In his first interview with his new club, O'Hora outlined the mentality he will bring.
"I despise losing games and I despise conceding goals," O'Hora told LCFC. "Winning is absolutely everything to me." He described himself as a leader and a warrior who will always make himself available for the team. O'Hora took to social media to thank everyone at Hibernian for two incredible years, citing memorable derby wins and European nights. His departure is a loss for a defence that has conceded seven goals in four league matches this season.
How do Hibs bounce back against St Johnstone?
The immediate task for Hibernian is to secure a positive result away to St Johnstone. Historical form offers some encouragement, as Hibs have lost only two of their last 13 Premiership visits to McDiarmid Park. However, St Johnstone will be confident after starting their home campaign with a win.
For Hibs, converting chances will be vital. The team has scored six goals so far but possesses a negative goal difference. Integrating any tactical adjustments from manager David Gray will be important ahead of a busy period. Fans can track the team's upcoming schedule, including the next Edinburgh derby away to Hearts on December 27th, on the club's fixtures page. The current standings show Hibernian six points behind league leaders Celtic.
What is the context of Hibernian's season?
The derby defeat is a setback in a season of mixed results, reflected in a recent form guide of Loss, Win, Win, Loss. The team's performances will need greater consistency to climb the table and close the gap to the top. With the transfer window closed, the focus is now fully on the existing squad delivering improved performances.
Key players will need to step up, and the management will be analysing the stats to identify areas for improvement. The next run of games before the winter break will be telling for the campaign's direction. Hibernian's next fixture is away to St Johnstone on September 7th.
