Derby defeat was a sore one but Hibs need to get back to winning form in league

If not quite swathing their squad in bubble wrap, the additional measures highlighted the game’s importance.

The reasons for that were threefold. Victory would have taken them one step closer to winning a trophy, and so soon after their 2016 success, they are well aware that the prestige and glory would be augmented by a bounce in support, merchandising and financial backing, all of which would be welcome.

Secondly, a derby win is desired at any time but everyone is aware of the residual animosity borne of the Leith club’s role in the demotion of their neighbours last term and there was far more than the usual helping of pride at stake.

But, thirdly, it was an opportunity to prove that the good work done and effort expended in rebuilding and reinvigorating the squad had been worthwhile.

The fact there was little to separate the teams on a night where the result could have gone either way, will be little consolation to the players, Jack Ross, the board or owner Ron Gordon. But it is how they deal with that disappointment that will ultimately determine their season. Not 120 minutes at a wet and windy Hampden.

So, what does the derby defeat mean for Hibs? It means that Friday’s trip to Pittodrie is now a massive test. It won’t make or break the season, not on it’s own, but it could definitely set the tone.

Having generated such a positive vibe early doors, they do not want that bubble to burst. Aberdeen are one of just two teams to have defeated them on league business, albeit in a game Alex Gogic had to sit out due to a false positive covid test and defeat this time would see them leapfrog Hibs and move into third place, with a game in hand.

For a Hibs side contesting the highest echelons not so long ago, it would be a disappointing slip down the rankings.

But a win would render Aberdeen’s game in hand an irrelevance, and prove a timely fill-up for fans disappointed by the derby loss.