The day started with the drive through to Glasgow, the M8 struggling to cope with the green and white whores (I think I misheard Ed, friend and driver) on their way through to see their team succeed where many before had failed. Would John Collins the gifted, sophisticated footballer be a gifted, sophisticated, successful manager?
Stuck behind a minibus we witnessed the ugly side of football - grown men peeing into their empty cans in the back of the bus. Where do they wash their hands? At the stadium, though, we saw the beautiful side of friendly rivalries, Hibs fans sharing their cans of lager with the blue and white Killie supporters, with a cheery wave and a "may the best team win" thumbs up. It must have been the ice-cold wind that for a minute made me think the cans were steaming.
The game itself was a joy for Hibees supporters and for any neutrals who appreciate good football. Fast, flowing, one touch football, tearing the Killie defence to shreds. What was more surprising was the strength and battling qualities shown by the gifted but sometimes lightweight Hibs midfield. Surprised to be in the starting line-up, new find Stevenson took his opportunity stake a claim for a regular place. With youthful enthusiasm he motored around the pitch, tackling back, passing astutely, dribbling past the opposition at will. Well worth his Man of the Match award. The Old Firm will be delighted to see the Hibs youth policy in such good shape. Nice to see Hibs goalkeeperMacNeill paying tribute to Budgie, in his canary yellow outfit(?). One or two dodgy moments confirmed he'd been paying attention at the coaching sessions. Killie for their part huffed and puffed, but Naismith, alone up front was well contained by recently promoted Captain Jones. Corporal punishment awaited any Kilmarnock player daring to attempt to broach the defensive Maginot Line. 1-0, 2-0 - looking good, but don't relax yet! Hibs can't play the slow, possessing game. 3-0 - time to relax! 3-1 - spoke too soon!
Ya beauty!! The Proclaimers sing along after the final whistle rivalled that at the Robbie Williams concert at the same venue in the summer - what other team can boast their own soundtrack? | |||||||||
| Editor Ger Harley (ger@scottishfitba net) Admin Team (admin@scottishfitba net) This is ScottishFitba Net |
