With all three of their registered goalies being unavailable, Thornton’s goalkeeping coach, Tony Higgins, made his debut between the sticks for the visit of Newburgh and it was his save deep into stoppage time that earned the Hibs all three points on a day when all four seasons were ‘enjoyed’.
 
After falling behind to a 2nd minute backheel from Daryl Falconer, the Hibs eventually equalised in the 33rd minute through Chris Ireland who netted his 20th goal of the season.

Five minutes later, Jack Wilson’s free-kick was only cleared as far as Adam Drummond who rifled the ball home from 18 yards on the angle.

In the 50th minute, Nick McGowan’s deep cross found the head of Drummond who turned provider as his clever lay-off was perfect for Stevie Leslie to knock past Craig Houston.

James Ross headed home Bruce McAdam’s corner-kick in the 76th minute to reduce the deficit to just one and not long at the back of this McAdam got first shot of the hot water after receiving his second yellow card.

Higgins ensured that all three points stayed in Memorial Park with a great full-length save from Ross right at the death.
 
The Window Store Hibs’ Man of the Match – Chris Ireland
 
Newburgh: Houston, Davidson, McAdam, Ferguson, Spence, Harris, Falconer, Honeyman, Ross, Gray, Chimiak. Subs: Butter, Whyte, Wilson.
 
Referee: Mr M. Gill