Playing with a fierce wind behind their backs in the first-half, the Hibs were unable to take advantage of the numerous goal-scoring opportunities they created, the closest thing being a header from Chris Ireland that came back off the upright.

It wasn't one-way traffic though as the visitors were looking dangerous on the break and in the 36th minute they were awarded a penalty after debutante, Elliot Ford, brought down Callum Mitchell. After some delay Scott Costello was the Hibs' hero as he dived full-length to push Ben Magee's attempt wide of its intended target.

After the break, Livingston used the wind to good effect and took the lead in the 54th minute when Callum Mitchell cut in from the left and sent a low shot into the far corner of the net.

As the game entered the closing stages there were three loud appeals for handball from Thornton's players but they fell on deaf ears and play was allowed to carry on. Craig Gilbert's team's day of woe was complete in the 85th minute when Stuart Drummond was ordered-off for a second yellow card offence meaning that the Hibs have finished four games out of six with just ten players on the park - a problem that must be addressed sooner rather than later.

GI Joinery Hibs' Man of the Match: On the occasion of his 300th Hibs appearance – Adam Drummond

Thornton Hibs: Costello, Crichton, Ford, S.Drummond, A.Drummond, Adam, Keatings, D.Anthony, Ireland, Thomson, Wilson. Subs: Robertson, Coleman, Dursley, Warrender.

Livingston United: J.Mullen, Bonner, Miller, Buckle, Lawson, Ramsay, Gregory, O'Kane, B.Magee, Mitchell, Bain. Subs: Russell, Stokes, King

Referee: Ms. L.Watson