Monday August 11th 2025
Easter Road on match day
Written by Midlothian View Reporter, Katie Gregory
Hibs kicked off the action at Easter Road, dominating possession from the very first whistle. Despite a midweek trip to Belgrade, the players looked sharp and confident on the ball, alive and eager from the start.
Dylan Levitt and Jamie McGrath controlled the midfield with precision, while Josh Mulligan and Jordan Obita stretched the play down their flanks, looking to exploit space.
In the seventh minute, Hibs displayed their attacking threat when Jamie McGrath delivered a clever pass to Junior Hoilett in the box. Hoilett set himself up perfectly, briefly unsettling Kilmarnock keeper Max Stryjek – but his shot drifted wide of goal.
The breakthrough came in the 20th minute after Jordan Obita surged down the left flank with dangerous intent before being fouled on the byline. Jamie McGrath stepped up and delivered a precise free-kick to Rocky Bushiri, who powered a close-range header into the net.
With the lead secured, Hibs grew more confident going forward. Hoilett continued to carve open Kilmarnock’s midfield, radiating warning signals every time he touched the ball.
As Kilmarnock settled into the match, possession swung back and forth, with neither side able to gain a clear advantage. This was until Hoilett sparked another attack with a perfectly timed through ball to Elie Youan. Driving forward with relentless intensity, Hoilett’s pass found Youan, who timed his run flawlessly to slot home a clinical finish.
Trailing 2-0, Kilmarnock held possession well but still struggled to fashion any clear-cut chances. That changed just before halftime, as Marcus Dackers maneuvered into the box from the left wing and found Liam Polworth, who calmly slotted the ball past Hibs keeper Jordan Smith.
Kilmarnock’s goal injected fresh energy as the second half began. Five minutes in, a corner was initially cleared by Hibs but the ball soared high and fell to the feet of 18-year-old Ben Brannan at the edge of the box. Brannan unleashed a stunning volley that thundered into the top corner, silencing Easter Road – until the away supporters erupted in applause.
This joy was short-lived, as Kilmarnock began the hunt for their winning goal. The visitors frustration was matched by Hibs, as each team tried desperately to gain an edge over their rivals and were left wanting.
The result will leave a shared sense of disappointment, as each side gave their all and believed their efforts deserved more. Hibs showcased moments of flair and resilience, while Kilmarnock’s determination and clinical finishing kept the contest fierce.
Ultimately, the match was a compelling display of grit and intensity, leaving fans entertained and players exhausted.
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