Is the Aberdeen fixture a dead rubber as well now?

[Scotty Leither]

Two games this season (and countless before now) and we haven't laid a glove on them - but will anyone in the Boardroom challenge Ross with that sentiment?

I doubt it - but then that's where we seem to be now, happy to trawl around mid-table and despite the new owner's fine words about "a league challenge in future" it still seems we're beset by the old Board's parsimony and caution...it's just got a transatlantic twist on it now.

A small squad that has absolutely no game changers and a bench containing identikit midfield players and the old guard of Gray and MacGregor to come in on an emergency.

What do we exactly charge our manager to deliver - regular European football? Parity in the derby fixture (or does that game even rate a mention)? Win 70/80% of your home games?

I really would be intrigued to know just where the bar is set for Hibs managers, but I suspect we'll only hear from the Board and Gordon when season tickets are needing renewed.

[SChibs]

Two games this season (and countless before now) and we haven't laid a glove on them - but will anyone in the Boardroom challenge Ross with that sentiment?

I doubt it - but then that's where we seem to be now, happy to trawl around mid-table and despite the new owner's fine words about "a league challenge in future" it still seems we're beset by the old Board's parsimony and caution...it's just got a transatlantic twist on it now.

A small squad that has absolutely no game changers and a bench containing identikit midfield players and the old guard of Gray and MacGregor to come in on an emergency.

What do we exactly charge our manager to deliver - regular European football? Parity in the derby fixture (or does that game even rate a mention)? Win 70/80% of your home games?

I really would be intrigued to know just where the bar is set for Hibs managers, but I suspect we'll only hear from the Board and Gordon when season tickets are needing renewed.

Our league position suggests improvement on last season. He was brought in to improve our league position and challenge for Europe. Aberdeen have been a good side for years and it will take more than a quarter of a season to catch up with them. We've started well in the league in the grand scheme of things.

[easty]

What is it you want the board to do? We paid for Nisbet, we paid for Magennis.

We all wanted Boyle signed on a new deal. They got him signed up.

I was never keen on Gogic but I seemed to be in the minority, most folk were happy he signed.

To use the word parsimony is ridiculous.

At the start of the season I thought we’d come at worst 4th. I still think that. Jack Ross has had just under a year. McInnes has built that team and drilled into them what he wants for years.

[Steve20]

Don’t worry about ever beating Rangers, Celtic, Hearts or Aberdeen again. It’s acceptable to be turned over regular. (And celebrate a draw at home to the Huns like an actual trophy)

As long as we beat Hamilton, St Johnstone and Killie by the odd goal, Jack Ross will be the greatest manager that we’ve had.

[easty]

Don’t worry about ever beating Rangers, Celtic, Hearts or Aberdeen again. It’s acceptable to be turned over regular. (And celebrate a draw at home to the Huns like an actual trophy)

As long as we beat Hamilton, St Johnstone and Killie by the odd goal, Jack Ross will be the greatest manager that we’ve had.

Yawn

[TelaStella]

To answer you shortly, yes.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[CmoantheHibs]

Don’t worry about ever beating Rangers, Celtic, Hearts or Aberdeen again. It’s acceptable to be turned over regular. (And celebrate a draw at home to the Huns like an actual trophy)

As long as we beat Hamilton, St Johnstone and Killie by the odd goal, Jack Ross will be the greatest manager that we’ve had.
What are you slavering about?

[allmodcons]

What is it you want the board to do? We paid for Nisbet, we paid for Magennis.

We all wanted Boyle signed on a new deal. They got him signed up.

I was never keen on Gogic but I seemed to be in the minority, most folk were happy he signed.

To use the word parsimony is ridiculous.

At the start of the season I thought we’d come at worst 4th. I still think that. Jack Ross has had just under a year. McInnes has built that team and drilled into them what he wants for years.

A good post.

I thought we were terrible tonight but still think we have improved on where we were last season.

.

[Scotty Leither]

Our league position suggests improvement on last season. He was brought in to improve our league position and challenge for Europe. Aberdeen have been a good side for years and it will take more than a quarter of a season to catch up with them. We've started well in the league in the grand scheme of things.

Next season then, maybe? Year after that? When we beat them to the punch for at least one player?

It's the same old same old with those that run the club - caution, caution, all the way - appoint a safe manager who'll not rock the boat too much and don't place any expectation on his shoulders beyond plodding along and bracketing finishing top 6 in this league as some sort of "achievement".

Those of us on here that would maybe like to see the club punch its weight for a consistent 4/5 seasons of qualifying for Europe are shouted down as "bedwetters" and having "unreasonable expectations".

21st of May 2016 should have been a turning point for Hibernian FC; monkey off our back, fans returning in numbers, and a good team to watch, instead we've stood still despite a new owner taking over (who's not so "new" now), but still "patience" appears to be the watchword at Easter Road.

[SChibs]

Next season then, maybe? Year after that? When we beat them to the punch for at least one player?

It's the same old same old with those that run the club - caution, caution, all the way - appoint a safe manager who'll not rock the boat too much and don't place any expectation on his shoulders beyond plodding along and bracketing finishing top 6 in this league as some sort of "achievement".

Those of us on here that would maybe like to see the club punch its weight for a consistent 4/5 seasons of qualifying for Europe are shouted down as "bedwetters" and having "unreasonable expectations".

21st of May 2016 should have been a turning point for Hibernian FC; monkey off our back, fans returning in numbers, and a good team to watch, instead we've stood still despite a new owner taking over (who's not so "new" now), but still "patience" appears to be the watchword at Easter Road.

We all want the same things but some expect drastic improvements overnight which is unrealistic.

[Scotty Leither]

What is it you want the board to do? We paid for Nisbet, we paid for Magennis.

We all wanted Boyle signed on a new deal. They got him signed up.

I was never keen on Gogic but I seemed to be in the minority, most folk were happy he signed.

To use the word parsimony is ridiculous.

At the start of the season I thought we’d come at worst 4th. I still think that. Jack Ross has had just under a year. McInnes has built that team and drilled into them what he wants for years.

10 players out and 5 in.

A squad that's threadbare beyond 13/14 players competing for 11 places, and no pressure on those in possession of the jersey.

We've had effectively 2 forward players in the centre forward position for the last 4-5 years, with a laddie on the bench as "back-up" - Caldwell, Shaw, Gullan as three examples.

We can debate the semi-final and our luck/the ref until the coo's come hame, but a point that's been made repeatedly on here is they had very experienced players came off the bench and got them a toe-hold back in the game.

We had no-one like that to call on, because to build a squad of 17-18 players of similar ability and a bit of experience costs MONEY.

This goes beyond Ross, Heckingbottom, Lennon, and I think "parsimony" is a fair choice of words, because that's the way Hibs operate.

Oh for a Tom Hart in the boardroom now.

[tamig]

Next season then, maybe? Year after that? When we beat them to the punch for at least one player?

It's the same old same old with those that run the club - caution, caution, all the way - appoint a safe manager who'll not rock the boat too much and don't place any expectation on his shoulders beyond plodding along and bracketing finishing top 6 in this league as some sort of "achievement".

Those of us on here that would maybe like to see the club punch its weight for a consistent 4/5 seasons of qualifying for Europe are shouted down as "bedwetters" and having "unreasonable expectations".

21st of May 2016 should have been a turning point for Hibernian FC; monkey off our back, fans returning in numbers, and a good team to watch, instead we've stood still despite a new owner taking over (who's not so "new" now), but still "patience" appears to be the watchword at Easter Road.

It doesn’t seem to matter who’s at the helm Scotty but you always come out with these attacks on the board after a few bad results. What’s your gripe? RG was barely in place 6 months when Covid popped up. You don’t think that’ stifled his ambitious plans somewhat? The squad is a bit thin and me and my laddie were looking at the two squads. We were saying Hibs probably have about 14 genuine first team starters. The rest are no more than backup. Aberdeen probably have 18 or 19 players they can forge a decent starting 11 from covering all areas of their team. We are well short of that. I do think we need to take the current situation into account though.

[easty]

10 players out and 5 in.

A squad that's threadbare beyond 13/14 players competing for 11 places, and no pressure on those in possession of the jersey.

We've had effectively 2 forward players in the centre forward position for the last 4-5 years, with a laddie on the bench as "back-up" - Caldwell, Shaw, Gullan as three examples.

We can debate the semi-final and our luck/the ref until the coo's come hame, but a point that's been made repeatedly on here is they had very experienced players came off the bench and got them a toe-hold back in the game.

We had no-one like that to call on, because to build a squad of 17-18 players of similar ability and a bit of experience costs MONEY.

This goes beyond Ross, Heckingbottom, Lennon, and I think "parsimony" is a fair choice of words, because that's the way Hibs operate.

Oh for a Tom Hart in the boardroom now.

Are you saying we shouldn’t have let so many players leave? If so, which ones? Fraser Murray? Ben Stirling? Dabrowski? Tom James? Slivka? Bogdan was never staying and never played anyway. We could’ve kept Horgan, but I think Murphy is good enough replacement there.

We’ve improved the squad, aye it looks like twice as many out as in, but the players who went out weren’t good enough to play. The ones who came in, mostly, should be.

[Heisenberg]

10 players out and 5 in.

A squad that's threadbare beyond 13/14 players competing for 11 places, and no pressure on those in possession of the jersey.

We've had effectively 2 forward players in the centre forward position for the last 4-5 years, with a laddie on the bench as "back-up" - Caldwell, Shaw, Gullan as three examples.

We can debate the semi-final and our luck/the ref until the coo's come hame, but a point that's been made repeatedly on here is they had very experienced players came off the bench and got them a toe-hold back in the game.

We had no-one like that to call on, because to build a squad of 17-18 players of similar ability and a bit of experience costs MONEY.

This goes beyond Ross, Heckingbottom, Lennon, and I think "parsimony" is a fair choice of words, because that's the way Hibs operate.

Oh for a Tom Hart in the boardroom now.

Money is a wee bit tight just now, there’s a pandemic on the go playing it’s part. The board have invested though, Ross and those in charge of the football department were in control of what they did with it. Nisbet looks a good choice and Gogic has contributed well, the jury is out on the rest of our summer signings for me.

[Magpie]

No win at Pittodrie since 2012 I was told?

[Scotty Leither]

Are you saying we shouldn’t have let so many players leave? If so, which ones? Fraser Murray? Ben Stirling? Dabrowski? Tom James? Slivka? Bogdan was never staying and never played anyway. We could’ve kept Horgan, but I think Murphy is good enough replacement there.

We’ve improved the squad, aye it looks like twice as many out as in, but the players who went out weren’t good enough to play. The ones who came in, mostly, should be.

I'm not saying that - It's the constant churn of sub-standard players (some of which should never get near Easter Road in the first place) that does me in - my point is if Hibs ever want to be consistent challengers as befits our fan-base and status as a big-city club, then we need to shed the plodding along mentality that's been the club's modus operandi for the last 20-30 years.

That takes serious investment from a serious owner, coupled with an engaged fan base to provide whoever's in the dugout with more options than we've got just now.

It also takes an owner who doesn't accept mid-table obscurity year-on-year, and a crap derby record... sorry, but i'm not convinced Ron Gordon isn't of the same cautious mindset of his predecessors who set the bar low for the Hibs to the point where we're inured to results and performances like tonight, and sequences of results against certain teams that have been the norm for Hibernian for far too long now.

[JohnM1875]

No win at Pittodrie since 2012 I was told?

Think it's 2014. And that's with us out of the same division for three years. So not as bad as the years make it out.

[Magpie]

Think it's 2014. And that's with us out of the same division for three years. So not as bad as the years make it out.

Just checked and it’s definitely 2012. Failed to win in 9 games there since.

[matty_f]

I hope the board, having invested not just in Jack Ross but in new players (at a time where let’s face it, the old board would have been putting money away for a rainy day rather than taking some calculated risks with transfers), see the direction we’re heading over the course of the next year, 2 years, 3 years etc and don’t **** their pants at the first bump in the road.

[JohnM1875]

Just checked and it’s definitely 2012. Failed to win in 9 games there since.

Jesus.

The three year in a different division thing is still right. Though being in the championship is hardly something to be chuffed about.

[Scotty Leither]

I hope the board, having invested not just in Jack Ross but in new players (at a time where let’s face it, the old board would have been putting money away for a rainy day rather than taking some calculated risks with transfers), see the direction we’re heading over the course of the next year, 2 years, 3 years etc and don’t **** their pants at the first bump in the road.

Is it always the wait 2/3 years, "bear with us" mindset that'll prevail at Easter Road?

What's wrong with a bit of expectation placed on the manager from above, or does pressure to get results always have to come from the fans via forums like these, or when supporters are actually in stadiums before any (usually reactive) steps are taken?

BTW, i'm not calling for Ross' head, far from it, I just suspect that the level of expectation placed on whatever incumbent is in the dugout by the Board is at odds with the fans' expectations, and that low bar does not seem to have changed with the new owner.

It's that mindset that sees us qualify for Europe once in a blue moon when that should be the minimum standard achieved by Hibernian every season.

[matty_f]

Is it always the wait 2/3 years, "bear with us" mindset that'll prevail at Easter Road?

What's wrong with a bit of expectation placed on the manager from above, or does pressure to get results always have to come from the fans via forums like these, or when supporters are actually in stadiums before any (usually reactive) steps are taken?

BTW, i'm not calling for Ross' head, far from it, I just suspect that the level of expectation placed on whatever incumbent is in the dugout by the Board is at odds with the fans' expectations, and that low bar does not seem to have changed with the new owner.

It's that mindset that sees us qualify for Europe once in a blue moon when that should be the minimum standard achieved by Hibernian every season.
He won’t have targets based on one or two fixtures, he’ll live or die by achieving targets on League placings and cup runs. That’s where the expectations will be placed on him by the board.

[jeffers]

Is it always the wait 2/3 years, "bear with us" mindset that'll prevail at Easter Road?

What's wrong with a bit of expectation placed on the manager from above, or does pressure to get results always have to come from the fans via forums like these, or when supporters are actually in stadiums before any (usually reactive) steps are taken?

BTW, i'm not calling for Ross' head, far from it, I just suspect that the level of expectation placed on whatever incumbent is in the dugout by the Board is at odds with the fans' expectations, and that low bar does not seem to have changed with the new owner.

It's that mindset that sees us qualify for Europe once in a blue moon when that should be the minimum standard achieved by Hibernian every season.

Unless Ron Gordon is full of b/s I’d be amazed if anyone who listened to him at the AGM came away thinking we had an owner lacking in ambition, if anything I thought his vision was over ambitious. So I’d suggest his expectations match those of the fans. And while the past two games have been bitterly disappointing to be 4th this season compared to where we were last is definitely making progress at present.

[Scotty Leither]

Unless Ron Gordon is full of b/s I’d be amazed if anyone who listened to him at the AGM came away thinking we had an owner lacking in ambition, if anything I thought his vision was over ambitious. So I’d suggest his expectations match those of the fans. And while the past two games have been bitterly disappointing to be 4th this season compared to where we were last is definitely making progress at present.

I heard him at the AGM too, and it was nice to hear a bit of ambition compared to the stuffy non-committal corporate guff that we got from Petrie...I think a lot of Gordon's plans were based on improving the match-day experience and increasing revenues that way, so in that regard I do feel for him that Covid has scuppered that.

However, talk is cheap, and i'm convinced that the current Board (who still have among their number a fair few of the old regime) think that those of us who suggest that Hibs are capable of better are being unreasonable and demanding.

For example, the approach to the derby game is a hotly debated topic on here, principally the different mindset adopted by the respective clubs to the fixture - our reticence in talking the game up to the level they do really grinds my gears, and it's things like that I don't think are fed back to Ron Gordon - in short, I don't think he "gets it".

In these straitened times more than any other time, we need something to give us something to look forward to and football is an outlet for that; the "slowly as we go" approach by Hibs wore thin a long time ago.

[Pagan Hibernia]

Two games this season (and countless before now) and we haven't laid a glove on them - but will anyone in the Boardroom challenge Ross with that sentiment?

I doubt it - but then that's where we seem to be now, happy to trawl around mid-table and despite the new owner's fine words about "a league challenge in future" it still seems we're beset by the old Board's parsimony and caution...it's just got a transatlantic twist on it now.

A small squad that has absolutely no game changers and a bench containing identikit midfield players and the old guard of Gray and MacGregor to come in on an emergency.

What do we exactly charge our manager to deliver - regular European football? Parity in the derby fixture (or does that game even rate a mention)? Win 70/80% of your home games?

I really would be intrigued to know just where the bar is set for Hibs managers, but I suspect we'll only hear from the Board and Gordon when season tickets are needing renewed.

tralimg around mid table? We’re 4th!

realistically we could only be one place higher.

[pedroorange1875]

our league position may indeed suggest a better position than previous seasons and i dont for a minute dispute that...but in real terms we are pish...its simple as that you can dispute how we got the points and thats maybe a reflection on the league... but the fare has been utter dross and we are in a false postion compared to actual real quality..the performances continue and over the course we will be found out as is now happening

[jeffers]

I heard him at the AGM too, and it was nice to hear a bit of ambition compared to the stuffy non-committal corporate guff that we got from Petrie...I think a lot of Gordon's plans were based on improving the match-day experience and increasing revenues that way, so in that regard I do feel for him that Covid has scuppered that.

However, talk is cheap, and i'm convinced that the current Board (who still have among their number a fair few of the old regime) think that those of us who suggest that Hibs are capable of better are being unreasonable and demanding.

For example, the approach to the derby game is a hotly debated topic on here, principally the different mindset adopted by the respective clubs to the fixture - our reticence in talking the game up to the level they do really grinds my gears, and it's things like that I don't think are fed back to Ron Gordon - in short, I don't think he "gets it".

In these straitened times more than any other time, we need something to give us something to look forward to and football is an outlet for that; the "slowly as we go" approach by Hibs wore thin a long time ago.

While recognising the names I’d argue that the those on the board who were part of the old regime (by that I assume you mean Petrie’s time) are small in numbers and have very little influence in the actual direction set for the club. So I’m not sure your argument stands up.

While I’d have preferred to have heard comments coming from the club stating that last week’s game was very important to them would it really have mattered ? It’s what was being said behind closed doors that was important and we have no idea what that was. I’d be amazed if Ron Gordon doesn’t get it and with the excellent job Kieran is doing as our fans rep fully expect our thoughts on last week are being fed to him.

I agree with your last sentence in terms of football being an outlet, but we have no option but to accept the “slowly as we go” approach you refer to. You say it yourself, COVID has scuppered a lot of RG’s plans for now, change will take longer as a result.

[My old man]

I like many others am utterly sick/disappointed with the last 2 results/performance but still feel strongly enough to try and put my point over

As much as I am spewing I do think we need to calm down a bit

We’re a relatively new team whilst I agree with people stating “we grinded out that result “

Over the Last few years we wouldn’t have ground out that result!! we’d have been BEAT most times

Yes Aeeeberdeeeeen are a thorn in our side and I for one would love nothing more than to see that McInnes’s puss when we eventually get the upper hand on his oversized squad

I’m now quoting Stevie “slippy” G when he stated after beating Sellik that they’ve been planning “this season” “stopping TIAR has been in plan for 2 years so maybe we need to just calm a bit and give JR a bit of time as this isnae really a normal year

Tin hat firmly on BTW

[Pretty Boy]

We were a good bit behind Aberdeen when we we rejoined this league and we are still a good bit behind them now. It's hard to argue against the idea that we have regressed since our 1st season back in the top flight, particularly the latter half of that season. Aberdeen have largely flatlined from that point.

2 wins in 13 games v them doesn't lie. Neither do the league placings in that time. Neither does the fact they have players in their squad that we wanted in ours. Aberdeen are a better side than us and, both in terms of finance and football ambition, a more attractive option for a player with that choice to make.

I don't like it but it's the reality. They will win more games against us this season than we win against them and will finish comfortably clear of us in the league.

[theonlywayisup]

I like many others am utterly sick/disappointed with the last 2 results/performance but still feel strongly enough to try and put my point over

As much as I am spewing I do think we need to calm down a bit

We’re a relatively new team whilst I agree with people stating “we grinded out that result “

Over the Last few years we wouldn’t have ground out that result!! we’d have been BEAT most times

Yes Aeeeberdeeeeen are a thorn in our side and I for one would love nothing more than to see that McInnes’s puss when we eventually get the upper hand on his oversized squad

I’m now quoting Stevie “slippy” G when he stated after beating Sellik that they’ve been planning “this season” “stopping TIAR has been in plan for 2 years so maybe we need to just calm a bit and give JR a bit of time as this isnae really a normal year

Tin hat firmly on BTW

I've intentionally stayed clear from Hibs.net, as I can understand that there will be an over reaction.

Whilst agreeing with what you write, I can also understand those who are criticising our players, manager, board etc.

For me, we are far too light in terms of player numbers. I feel we've only got 14-15 reliably good players, which isn't enough for a long hard season.

I also think our set-up is wrong when playing the better teams. Playing only two in midfield, with two wide players, is not working against the better teams. Our forward players are fighting a losing battle in such cases against good defences.

Boyle and whoever is in the left haven't performed in games against the better teams. Is that their fault or the set-up.

The manager, who I support 100%, needs to address this, and soon.

[G B Young]

Two games this season (and countless before now) and we haven't laid a glove on them - but will anyone in the Boardroom challenge Ross with that sentiment?

I doubt it - but then that's where we seem to be now, happy to trawl around mid-table and despite the new owner's fine words about "a league challenge in future" it still seems we're beset by the old Board's parsimony and caution...it's just got a transatlantic twist on it now.

A small squad that has absolutely no game changers and a bench containing identikit midfield players and the old guard of Gray and MacGregor to come in on an emergency.

What do we exactly charge our manager to deliver - regular European football? Parity in the derby fixture (or does that game even rate a mention)? Win 70/80% of your home games?

I really would be intrigued to know just where the bar is set for Hibs managers, but I suspect we'll only hear from the Board and Gordon when season tickets are needing renewed.

We battered Aberdeen 3-0 in Ross's first game against them less than a year ago. I'm finding it hard to understand how since then we find them so hard to lay a glove on.

[GreenCastle]

We battered Aberdeen 3-0 in Ross's first game against them less than a year ago. I'm finding it hard to understand how since then we find them so hard to lay a glove on.

Aberdeen were awful that day and had several players missing.

Central midfield for us is a massive issue - Newell while an excellent player at times isn’t made for a 4-4-2. Opposition teams and managers know that.

As others have pointed out there is no coincidence Aberdeen are ahead of us they spend more on wages and also have taken several players we wanted to sign.

I’m not a McInnes fan or think he will go onto bigger or better things but he seems pretty consistent in Scottish terms getting 3rd in the league. Many Dons are still fed up with him after games like last week against Celtic.

What frustrates me about last night is the limited reaction after the Derby. Losing a goal 5 mins in and then 2-0 away from home at half time is really difficult to turn around...let alone a place we haven’t won since 2012.

Derbies and Aberdeen games have to be addressed. Old Firm games are different as they are a free hit as they are so far ahead financially any points are a bonus.

[G B Young]

Aberdeen were awful that day and had several players missing.

Central midfield for us is a massive issue - Newell while an excellent player at times isn’t made for a 4-4-2. Opposition teams and managers know that.

As others have pointed out there is no coincidence Aberdeen are ahead of us they spend more on wages and also have taken several players we wanted to sign.

I’m not a McInnes fan or think he will go onto bigger or better things but he seems pretty consistent in Scottish terms getting 3rd in the league. Many Dons are still fed up with him after games like last week against Celtic.

What frustrates me about last night is the limited reaction after the Derby. Losing a goal 5 mins in and then 2-0 away from home at half time is really difficult to turn around...let alone a place we haven’t won since 2012.

Derbies and Aberdeen games have to be addressed. Old Firm games are different as they are a free hit as they are so far ahead financially any points are a bonus.

IIRC Aberdeen had beaten Rangers in the game before we thumped them so I think it's harsh to say it was only down to them being awful that we won. Boyle was on fire that day, with Allan and Kamberi also on song. It seemed to me we were really fired up for the game and I'm just wondering where that fire has gone in subsequent games against them. Granted we gifted them both goals last night, but we really should be offering more - and I fully agree about the lack of reaction after a derby defeat. Very frustrating.

[easty]

We were a good bit behind Aberdeen when we we rejoined this league and we are still a good bit behind them now. It's hard to argue against the idea that we have regressed since our 1st season back in the top flight, particularly the latter half of that season. Aberdeen have largely flatlined from that point.

2 wins in 13 games v them doesn't lie. Neither do the league placings in that time. Neither does the fact they have players in their squad that we wanted in ours. Aberdeen are a better side than us and, both in terms of finance and football ambition, a more attractive option for a player with that choice to make.

I don't like it but it's the reality. They will win more games against us this season than we win against them and will finish comfortably clear of us in the league.

They’ve had continuity since we came back into the league, we’ve not.

I don’t think they’ll finish “comfortably” ahead of us this season, they’re favourites for 3rd, but that’s been the case the last 2 seasons too...and they’ve finished 4th in both of them.

Come the end of the season I would be absolutely amazed if there’s more than 4 or 5 points between us and Aberdeen. It’s a shame though, that for some posters, even if we end up 4th and only a point behind Aberdeen, it’ll be described as a failure.

[The Harp Awakes]

In answer to the OP, sadly it looks that way.

The 2 clubs of similar size and stature to us are Hearts and Aberdeen. Our results against these 2 clubs over the last 10 years and more has been nothing short of atrocious and is completely unacceptable. Our record at Pittodrie is one thing, but I think that's now 1 win in 11 or 12 games home and away against Aberdeen.

Yes Hearts and Aberdeen have been able to spend more money than us on players during that time, but the gap isn't so big to merit such an inept record.

I was optimistic when RG acquired the club, particularly after getting the monkey off our backs in 2016. I thought we'd go on to show more backbone and resilience. Seems to me now that the bad habits of the past are beginning to creep back in. We're becoming too nice again, and I think our recent recruitment, or lack of it, hasn't helped. We need players and coaching staff who have fire in their bellies and who can show the necessary aggression when needed to succed.

Aberdeen are an awful team to watch, but we are light years behind them as a club and playing squad in terms of mindset and resilience.

We have ability in the squad for sure and the Manager and team deserve credit for managing to beat the lesser teams in the league, but we are lacking the necessary leadership and steel at present to move to the next level.

[Bronson]

The problem is we’ve been trying to play aberdeen at their own game the last few seasons. I love doidge but there’s always a temptation to hoof it to him and aberdeen will eat that up all day.

The way to beat aberdeen is to play through them like we did in the 3-0 at easter road. Get guys like scott allan (obviously unavailable now i’m aware) on the ball and get passes in behind for guys like boyle to do the damage.

We used to play them off the park most games under lenny. Quite often we never got the result we deserved (league cup game at ER sticks out where we lost on pens) which maybe contradicts what i’m saying but at least we were dominating the game. We’re not even laying a glove on them these days.

[EI255]

OK, two bad results. But I'm more than happy with Hibs this season. Good singings, in difficult times remember, and lots to look forward to.

COYBIG

Sent from my LG-H870 using Tapatalk

[Magpie]

Just checked and the last time we came back from a goal down to beat Aberdeen was February 2008.

[Bobby's Cinema]

Two games this season (and countless before now) and we haven't laid a glove on them - but will anyone in the Boardroom challenge Ross with that sentiment?

I doubt it - but then that's where we seem to be now, happy to trawl around mid-table and despite the new owner's fine words about "a league challenge in future" it still seems we're beset by the old Board's parsimony and caution...it's just got a transatlantic twist on it now.

A small squad that has absolutely no game changers and a bench containing identikit midfield players and the old guard of Gray and MacGregor to come in on an emergency.

What do we exactly charge our manager to deliver - regular European football? Parity in the derby fixture (or does that game even rate a mention)? Win 70/80% of your home games?

I really would be intrigued to know just where the bar is set for Hibs managers, but I suspect we'll only hear from the Board and Gordon when season tickets are needing renewed.
We are a clear 4th in the league, which is well above our average.
And as I mentioned on another thread, not so long ago it was being touted as our best start in 50 years.

A knife edge result in our biggest game of the season followed up by poor decisions by players throwing away a nothing game and everything the manager has done the previous 6 months if forgotten is that right?
Some on here really need to take it down a notch.

[calumhibee1]

Just checked and the last time we came back from a goal down to beat Aberdeen was February 2008.

I feel even less like we’ll get back into a game when we go behind against Aberdeen than I do against the OF.

[Sir David Gray]

I feel even less like we’ll get back into a game when we go behind against Aberdeen than I do against the OF.

Yep I felt the game was done after 5 minutes last night.

[familyman]

Two games this season (and countless before now) and we haven't laid a glove on them - but will anyone in the Boardroom challenge Ross with that sentiment?

I doubt it - but then that's where we seem to be now, happy to trawl around mid-table and despite the new owner's fine words about "a league challenge in future" it still seems we're beset by the old Board's parsimony and caution...it's just got a transatlantic twist on it now.

A small squad that has absolutely no game changers and a bench containing identikit midfield players and the old guard of Gray and MacGregor to come in on an emergency.

What do we exactly charge our manager to deliver - regular European football? Parity in the derby fixture (or does that game even rate a mention)? Win 70/80% of your home games?

I really would be intrigued to know just where the bar is set for Hibs managers, but I suspect we'll only hear from the Board and Gordon when season tickets are needing renewed.

We see an ordinary team with no leader despite of asking for years we still lack that player...we will not progress with the current player pool unless some of them wake up and fight in these so called big games..They have let us down yet again..there is no excuse for lack of fight NO EXCUSE ...It is sad not to go to games having paid to do so but the very least I would expect is fight and a will to win...renew why would we with this set up as it stands.

[Weegreenman]

I’d just like to see us try and play football the way it’s meant to be played . Pass and move. It’s really no that difficult but for some strange reason we have a team that really struggles with this concept.

I’ve been bored ****less watching us this season. I’ve lost almost all interest if I’m being honest. Sad times!

[basehibby]

Don’t worry about ever beating Rangers, Celtic, Hearts or Aberdeen again. It’s acceptable to be turned over regular. (And celebrate a draw at home to the Huns like an actual trophy)

As long as we beat Hamilton, St Johnstone and Killie by the odd goal, Jack Ross will be the greatest manager that we’ve had.

The truth is that in order to have a good league season the Hamiltons, StJohnstones and Killies ARE the teams you realy do HAVE to beat regularly. That is something we have seen countless Hibs lineups fail to do, so succeeding in that is something to be relished and not belittled (only a quarter of the season in but definite pass marks for Ross so far in this respect).

Of course the games against the OF, Hearts and Aberdeen are also important - not least because winning them leads to points and trophies - but also because winning them gives everyone a shot in the arm of self belief - from the the stands right through the first team squad to the boardroom. I don't think there's any Hibs fan who is happy at losing any of these fixtures, but it's inevitable that we will lose some of them. Under Ross' reign so far our record in that department leaves something to be desired it's true - I'm sure he wants victories in these games every bit as much any fan though and it's a bit early doors to conclude that he hasn't got the goods to deliver in these games.

PS - treating a draw vs the huns like a cup win?!? Dinnae be daft!

[Onion]

In answer to the OP, sadly it looks that way.

The 2 clubs of similar size and stature to us are Hearts and Aberdeen. Our results against these 2 clubs over the last 10 years and more has been nothing short of atrocious and is completely unacceptable. Our record at Pittodrie is one thing, but I think that's now 1 win in 11 or 12 games home and away against Aberdeen.

Yes Hearts and Aberdeen have been able to spend more money than us on players during that time, but the gap isn't so big to merit such an inept record.

I was optimistic when RG acquired the club, particularly after getting the monkey off our backs in 2016. I thought we'd go on to show more backbone and resilience. Seems to me now that the bad habits of the past are beginning to creep back in. We're becoming too nice again, and I think our recent recruitment, or lack of it, hasn't helped. We need players and coaching staff who have fire in their bellies and who can show the necessary aggression when needed to succed.

Aberdeen are an awful team to watch, but we are light years behind them as a club and playing squad in terms of mindset and resilience.

We have ability in the squad for sure and the Manager and team deserve credit for managing to beat the lesser teams in the league, but we are lacking the necessary leadership and steel at present to move to the next level.

Totally agree. Over the last 18 months, we've lost the few players we had with balls and drive and replaced them with guys with lower standards. Also, not convinced Jack Ross fully understands the standards the fans demand, and set by some of his predecessors. He's far too accepting of uncompetitive performances against the OF, Aberdeen and Hearts.

[jeffers]

Totally agree. Over the last 18 months, we've lost the few players we had with balls and drive and replaced them with guys with lower standards. Also, not convinced Jack Ross fully understands the standards the fans demand, and set by some of his predecessors. He's far too accepting of uncompetitive performances against the OF, Aberdeen and Hearts.

Last night is the first time I can remember him coming out and criticising the players. Talk is cheap, but I liked his honesty about his and the team’s performance. I suppose we’ll find out very soon against Celtic if they are just hollow words.

[DarlingtonHibee]

10 players out and 5 in.

A squad that's threadbare beyond 13/14 players competing for 11 places, and no pressure on those in possession of the jersey.

We've had effectively 2 forward players in the centre forward position for the last 4-5 years, with a laddie on the bench as "back-up" - Caldwell, Shaw, Gullan as three examples.

We can debate the semi-final and our luck/the ref until the coo's come hame, but a point that's been made repeatedly on here is they had very experienced players came off the bench and got them a toe-hold back in the game.

We had no-one like that to call on, because to build a squad of 17-18 players of similar ability and a bit of experience costs MONEY.

This goes beyond Ross, Heckingbottom, Lennon, and I think "parsimony" is a fair choice of words, because that's the way Hibs operate.

Oh for a Tom Hart in the boardroom now.

Hibs work within an agreed budget, given that we have no reve from fans att games, I think Ron Gordon has helped go meet the budget

[Real Emerald]

The truth is that in order to have a good league season the Hamiltons, StJohnstones and Killies ARE the teams you realy do HAVE to beat regularly. That is something we have seen countless Hibs lineups fail to do, so succeeding in that is something to be relished and not belittled (only a quarter of the season in but definite pass marks for Ross so far in this respect).

Of course the games against the OF, Hearts and Aberdeen are also important - not least because winning them leads to points and trophies - but also because winning them gives everyone a shot in the arm of self belief - from the the stands right through the first team squad to the boardroom. I don't think there's any Hibs fan who is happy at losing any of these fixtures, but it's inevitable that we will lose some of them. Under Ross' reign so far our record in that department leaves something to be desired it's true - I'm sure he wants victories in these games every bit as much any fan though and it's a bit early doors to conclude that he hasn't got the goods to deliver in these games.

PS - treating a draw vs the huns like a cup win?!? Dinnae be daft!

You can’t beat Rantic, the sheep or Hearts without a functioning midfield with a bit of dig and we haven’t got one. There’s no drive or creativity especially as we’re operating with basically two midfielders one of whom is defensive.

Unfortunately we really don’t have the squad members to fix the problem or so it would appear. No idea what the Allan situation is but if he’s not going to be involved we need to recruit (need money though)! Hopefully Kyle Magennis will settle in too.

[GreenCastle]

It seems we always seem to make some really bad mistakes against them, especially away from home which gifts them goals.

I agree with the poster above about how we beat them previously was was with speed and getting in behind - think even the Doidge game when he missed the 1v1s..he got in behind them.

I do think some players standards have dropped. No coincidence since the international break too..

The lack of depth and the team pretty much picking itself is an issue. We could really do with some players pushing for a starting place more like Hallberg etc.

[matty_f]

It seems we always seem to make some really bad mistakes against them, especially away from home which gifts them goals.

I agree with the poster above about how we beat them previously was was with speed and getting in behind - think even the Doidge game when he missed the 1v1s..he got in behind them.

I do think some players standards have dropped. No coincidence since the international break too..

The lack of depth and the team pretty much picking itself is an issue. We could really do with some players pushing for a starting place more like Hallberg etc.

I think the reason we didn’t get in behind them last night was that, having been gifted 2 very early goals, Aberdeen just sat in and let us play in front of them. There was no space behind them.

[GreenCastle]

I think the reason we didn’t get in behind them last night was that, having been gifted 2 very early goals, Aberdeen just sat in and let us play in front of them. There was no space behind them.

Agreed but goals coming from own basic errors. Game was over after 15 mins

[MWHIBBIES]

Totally agree. Over the last 18 months, we've lost the few players we had with balls and drive and replaced them with guys with lower standards. Also, not convinced Jack Ross fully understands the standards the fans demand, and set by some of his predecessors. He's far too accepting of uncompetitive performances against the OF, Aberdeen and Hearts.

Who have we lost over the last 18 months that had balls and drive?

[Hibernian Verse]

Who have we lost over the last 18 months that had balls and drive?

The post you've quoted is a cracker. 18 months ago we were just starting under Hecky, and we then contrived to look like relegation contenders in the new season. Fast forward to now and we're sitting 4th with a clear gap to 5th, but we've lost players with balls and drive apparently.

This place is worse than the Kerrydale Meltdown twitter page just now.

[Onceinawhile]

We're 7 points clear of 5th. Pretty big leap to call in command of 4th spot "mid table"

[superfurryhibby]

I think the reason we didn’t get in behind them last night was that, having been gifted 2 very early goals, Aberdeen just sat in and let us play in front of them. There was no space behind them.

Correct, hence why we had 61% possession. They also had conceded 23 fouls to our 11.

It’s hard to plan for the kind of basic errors which effectively gifted them the game. Aberdeen are horribly effective at doing the ugly stuff and were never going to relinquish a two goal lead to Hibs. Hibs are at their most effective with swift counter attacking football.

It was game over after15 minutes.