A 38th minute strike from Chris Ireland was ultimately the difference between the sides but the Hibs' goalkeeper, Kyle Marley, played a massive part in this victory over their Superleague opponents.

The first of Marley's top drawer saves came in the 20th minute as he miraculously tipped over Kris Renton's header. Marley was rooted to the spot though in the 27th minute as Lewis Coult's powerful drive whizzed past him but the crossbar came to the Hibs' rescue this time and the ball was cleared.

It was by no means one way traffic however as Chris Ireland latched on to a superb pass from Ross Morgan to smash the ball low past James McQueen for what turned out to be the only goal of the game. And Thornton's lead should've been doubled just three minutes later but Garry Thomson missed the target after being set up by Ireland.

Shortly before half-time, Marley saved with his foot from Coult and he took this form into the second-half when he brilliantly saved from the former Hearts' player, Craig Thomson.

Another terrific save to deny Renton late in the game allowed the Hibs to progress into the second round of the Fife & Lothians Cup.

Window Store Hibs' Man of the Match: Kyle Marley

Newtongrange Star: McQueen, Murray, Noble, Tolmie, Dunn, Motion, Thomson, Cherrie, Renton, Coult, Wilson. Subs: King, Tulloch, Cropley, Rooney.

Referee: Mr B. Allan