Playing their first competitive fixture for seven weeks, Thornton showed no signs of ring-rustiness as they progressed into the the third round of the Fife and Lothians Cup at the expense of Sauchie.

And the icing on the cake came as Jimmy Shields made his 250th appearance in a green and white jersey with Scott Costello celebrating his first appearance in goals by enjoying a clean sheet.

Both teams had chances to score but it was still goal-less when the referee sounded the half-time whistle.

Max Coleman broke the deadlock in the 61st minute following a good run by Garry Thomson. His shot was parried by Darren Dolan but Shaun Keatings squared the loose ball into the path of Coleman who made no mistake from close range.

A pile-driver from Coleman shortly after brought out a terrific save from Dolan to keep his team in the game. At the other end, Costello had to look lively to prevent David Grant from claiming an equaliser.

There were no more goals though meaning that the Hibs will now take on either Edinburgh United or Haddington Athletic in the next round on a date to be advised.

SM Electrical Services Man of the Match: Stuart Drummond

Sauchie: D.Dolan, Houston, Syme, S.Dolan, Bell, McTaggart, Morgan, Cummings, Kelly, Grant, Morrison. Subs: Hewitt, Sharp, Wells.

Thornton Hibs: Costello, M.Robertson, A.Drummond, S.Drummond, Shields, Coleman, Keatings, Hepburn, Ireland, Thomson, McNab. Subs: Shanks, Adam, McMillan, Crichton.

Referee: Mr J.Curran.

Match statistics:
Attempts at goal - Sa 5 TH 11
Attempts on target - Sa 2 TH 4
Corners - Sa 3 TH 4
Offside - Sa 3 TH 6
Fouls committed - Sa 22 TH 12
Yellow Cards - Sa 6 TH 4
Red Cards - Sa 0 TH 0