This hard-earned victory in the sunshine at Luncarty means the Hibs need just three points from their remaining four games to allow them to be promoted with Kirrie Thistle.

Thornton took the lead in the 32nd minute. Dale Robertson's free-kick was clumsily knocked round the post by Duncan Bruce and the resultant corner-kick, driven in by Shaun Keatings, was headed home by Stuart Drummond. This was the only goal during the first forty-five although the Hibs had Jimmy Shields to thank as he headed Jake Dolzanski's effort off the line on the stroke of half-time.

The second-half was only three minutes as Darren Gray's corner-kick was met by the head of Dolzanski at the back post with the ball flashing into the net.

Luncarty were a different proposition now and enjoyed a lot more possession but just as it looked as if the game was going to end all-square, Ewan Henderson broke clear and clipped the ball over Bruce to seal victory for Craig Gilbert's men.

SM Electrical Services Hibs' Man of the Match: Dean McMillan

Luncarty: Bruce, D.Kelly, McAllister, Gray, Reid, Doig, Montgomery, Millar, Allan, Dobie, Dolzanski. Subs: J.Kelly, Walker, Maher, McLaren, G.Kelly

Thornton Hibs: Linton, D.Robertson, McMillan, Drummond, Shields, Coleman, Keatings, Hepburn, Ireland, McGowan, Crichton. Subs: Henderson, M.Robertson, Thomson, Shanks.

Referee: Mr J.Stewart