Semi final draw - Dundee Utd v Hibs

[scoopyboy]

Not sure if this is the best place to mention it but I see Dundee United fans gathered to give their players a big send off when they were leaving tannadice for the game on Sunday. Thought it looked great to be fair to them and no doubt they’ll be doing the same for the semi final.

Wonder if the Hibs singing section (forget what they’re called now) would consider doing something similar for the Hibs team bus leaving?

Hibs will be leaving from a hotel, not Easter Road.

[Northernhibee]

Hibs will be leaving from a hotel, not Easter Road.

Get them a nice continental breakfast?

[wookie70]

Not sure if this is the best place to mention it but I see Dundee United fans gathered to give their players a big send off when they were leaving tannadice for the game on Sunday. Thought it looked great to be fair to them and no doubt they’ll be doing the same for the semi final.

Wonder if the Hibs singing section (forget what they’re called now) would consider doing something similar for the Hibs team bus leaving?

Not sure I would be in favour of what the Utd fans did. Not exactly Covid friendly and seemed more about the fans than the team with the flares/smoke bombs etc

I do think something could be organised though. What about a message board thread of good wishes and inspiration that fans can log into using only existing client numbers. That should avoid opposition fans and I'm sure we would all love to leave some encouraging and inspiring words. That to me is more akin to the Time for Heroes banner that is so evocative of the Cup Final.

[Sir David Gray]

Not sure if this is the best place to mention it but I see Dundee United fans gathered to give their players a big send off when they were leaving tannadice for the game on Sunday. Thought it looked great to be fair to them and no doubt they’ll be doing the same for the semi final.

Wonder if the Hibs singing section (forget what they’re called now) would consider doing something similar for the Hibs team bus leaving?

I'm assuming this wasn't actually endorsed by Dundee Utd as a club?

[wookie70]

I'm assuming this wasn't actually endorsed by Dundee Utd as a club?
I doubt it but I would quite like something organised along with the club that allows fans to wish players well, perhaps @Power could see if anything could be done for fans to show post their well wishes in an organised fashion

[DH1875]

Hibs will be leaving from a hotel, not Easter Road.

Utd left from a hotel as well :wink: The fans done it on the Saturday not the Sunday.

[scoopyboy]

Utd left from a hotel as well :wink: The fans done it on the Saturday not the Sunday.

So the fans turned up at Tannadice on a Saturday to wave the team on their way to a hotel. Do Utd advertise when their team bus is leaving to go to a hotel????????

[DH1875]

So the fans turned up at Tannadice on a Saturday to wave the team on their way to a hotel. Do Utd advertise when their team bus is leaving to go to a hotel????????

I've no idea. Found it to be a weird one myself to be honest.

[The dalmeny]

I've no idea. Found it to be a weird one myself to be honest.

Doesn't seem unreasonable, They aren't going to travel, at least they made the effort (Covid comments notwithstanding).

I follow a few folk on twitter/forums etc, seemed to be received quite positive from their players

[JimBHibees]

Doesn't seem unreasonable, They aren't going to travel, at least they made the effort (Covid comments notwithstanding).

I follow a few folk on twitter/forums etc, seemed to be received quite positive from their players

Micky Mellon specifically mentioned it after the game

[The dalmeny]

Micky Mellon specifically mentioned it after the game

🗣 "It started yesterday with the send off we got from the supporters. They showed us what it's all about."

[Dmas]

Utd’s goalie siegreist season is over, broken wrist big blow to them hope the guy makes a speedy recovery looks a player.....but good news for us

[skyehibee]

Confirmed Dundee Utd goalkeeper siegrist is out for the rest of the season which is good news for us.

[Moulin Yarns]

Confirmed Dundee Utd goalkeeper siegrist is out for the rest of the season which is good news for us.

So long as they don't get an emergency signing in Conrad Logan 😉

[Oscar T Grouch]

They have a decent replacement for Seigrist in Mehmet but it’s still an advantage for us, them having their 2nd choice goalie.

[AFKA5814_Hibs]

So long as they don't get an emergency signing in Conrad Logan 😉

They have Ross Doohan on loan from Celtic as back up to Mehmet who played against Aberdeen.

[Brummie_Hibs]

They have a decent replacement for Seigrist in Mehmet but it’s still an advantage for us, them having their 2nd choice goalie.
Puts us even as we'd be playing our second choice keeper.

[DH1875]

Doesn't seem unreasonable, They aren't going to travel, at least they made the effort (Covid comments notwithstanding).

I follow a few folk on twitter/forums etc, seemed to be received quite positive from their players

2 things that I found strange were that;

It was the day before the game.
Utd stayed in a hotel for a game an hour and a half away. Not sure where the rules regarding covid were at but still surprised me.

[ian cruise]

2 things that I found strange were that;

It was the day before the game.
Utd stayed in a hotel for a game an hour and a half away. Not sure where the rules regarding covid were at but still surprised me.

I'm assuming the hotel stay would be to ensure players were being strict with diet, rest and to help add focus on the task at hand. Only reason I can think of given it was so close and it's an added expense.

[The dalmeny]

I'm assuming the hotel stay would be to ensure players were being strict with diet, rest and to help add focus on the task at hand. Only reason I can think of given it was so close and it's an added expense.

Could have been tested at tannadice then kept in a bubble

[Since452]

Confirmed Dundee Utd goalkeeper siegrist is out for the rest of the season which is good news for us.

Brilliant news for us. He is class.

[Onceinawhile]

Brilliant news for us. He is class.

Yup. Kept it at one nil at easter road until they got the late equaliser, we would have been well out of sight otherwise.

However, last time we played Dundee United in a semi final and one of the first choice goalies was missing....

[1van Sprou7e]

Puts us even as we'd be playing our second choice keeper.

Hope not, success more important than sentiment here

[DH1875]

Hope not, success more important than sentiment here

Do you not think he will play? I reckon he will.

[hibbysam]

Yup. Kept it at one nil at easter road until they got the late equaliser, we would have been well out of sight otherwise.

However, last time we played Dundee United in a semi final and one of the first choice goalies was missing....

While he made a lot of saves, my recollection is that most were extremely poor finishing, straight at him types. No doubt a very good keeper, just that day I felt it was more down to our finishing than his keeping. Similar to his performance against Celtic at Tannadice - so probably tells you more about his positioning and decision making.

[GreenNWhiteArmy]

All teams suffering with injuries, some more than most

Be great if we can win and St Mirren beat St J

[Vault Boy]

Siegrist missing out is about as good as it gets from a Hibs perspective. He's been class all season, but his last performance against us particularly was absolutely ridiculous IIRC.

[1van Sprou7e]

Do you not think he will play? I reckon he will.

Think you may be right but it's a big call

All well and good giving the 2nd keeper game time in the cups but when it comes down to the really important games you want your best guy in between the sticks

[Stuart93]

Think you may be right but it's a big call

All well and good giving the 2nd keeper game time in the cups but when it comes down to the really important games you want your best guy in between the sticks

Can’t see him continuing with Macey at this stage. Semi final is far too important and the best 11 possible should be played which includes Marciano imo

[wookie70]

Can’t see him continuing with Macey at this stage. Semi final is far too important and the best 11 possible should be played which includes Marciano imo

I think that is what should happen but whether Macey is likely to sign may come into it

[SHODAN]

Puts us even as we'd be playing our second choice keeper.

I hope not.

[Stuart93]

I think that is what should happen but whether Macey is likely to sign may come into it

Should it though? Regardless of whether he’s signing or not we should still be playing our better keeper you’d think

[Dunbar Hibee]

Macey will play.

[GreenPJ]

Can’t see him continuing with Macey at this stage. Semi final is far too important and the best 11 possible should be played which includes Marciano imo

There is no justification to drop him because its a semi-final - in a cup competition every game is important or you are out. What message does it send to the goalie as to the lack of confidence Ross has in him if he drops him. I fully expect Macey will and should retain the gloves for the duration in the cup subject to injury.

[Andy74]

Macey will play.

Maybe, but if it is taken from Ross's comments about cup games I don't think it was a promise to play in all of them.

"Matt is a good keeper and I said I would give him the opportunity to play in cup ties and I will continue to do that”

He continued to do that by giving him the next game. With the magnitude of the semi and hopefully the final now I suspect he will go with who he thinks is the best keeper and would expect that to be Rocky.

[worcesterhibby]

Maybe, but if it is taken from Ross's comments about cup games I don't think it was a promise to play in all of them.

"Matt is a good keeper and I said I would give him the opportunity to play in cup ties and I will continue to do that”

He continued to do that by giving him the next game. With the magnitude of the semi and hopefully the final now I suspect he will go with who he thinks is the best keeper and would expect that to be Rocky.

If we are losing Rocky and intending to keep Macey as his replacement that's not going to do his confidence any good. I'm not saying I wouldn't put Rocky in myself, but it is a difficult one for Jack

[Andy74]

If we are losing Rocky and intending to keep Macey as his replacement that's not going to do his confidence any good. I'm not saying I wouldn't put Rocky in myself, but it is a difficult one for Jack

I think he pretty clearly knows that he is No 2 to Rocky. He has been since he came here.

We might keep Macey and still get a replacement for Rocky according to Ross recently so it will be up to him to be better than whatever other keepers we have around.

Shouldn't really be a difficult one - play your best team and next year can be worried about then.

[blackpoolhibs]

I think he pretty clearly knows that he is No 2 to Rocky. He has been since he came here.

We might keep Macey and still get a replacement for Rocky according to Ross recently so it will be up to him to be better than whatever other keepers we have around.

Shouldn't really be a difficult one - play your best team and next year can be worried about then.
:agree:

[WeeRussell]

I think there's an argument (rather than overthinking whether one is second choice or cup keeper) they've now both played games for us recently, so Jack Ross can judge who is currently his best keeper and they go in for this huge game.

If that is the case - I imagine its Marciano that plays.

[erin go bragh]

There is no justification to drop him because its a semi-final - in a cup competition every game is important or you are out. What message does it send to the goalie as to the lack of confidence Ross has in him if he drops him. I fully expect Macey will and should retain the gloves for the duration in the cup subject to injury.

Rocky should be in goals for the semi ,,, Macy didn’t look to clever at both the Motherwell goals ,, had Rocky been in goals , I don’t think the game would have finished 2-2

[calumhibee1]

https://www.ignitionsportsmedia.com/products/dundee-united-vs-hibernian-scottish-cup-semi-final

Semi final programme available

[Cod Boy]

Brilliant news for us. He is class.

Let’s hope his replacement doesn’t have a Conrad Logan performance in the semi final

[Since90+2]

I'd be surprised if Marciano doesn't start.

[CMurdoch]

Dundee Utd back up Mehmet isn't great. Mistakes in him. They have brought Doohan in on loan from Celtic but he hasn't started to date.
Rocky to start for me. Our best keeper and there is a shed load of money and prestige riding on us winning the Cup.

The biggest threat to Hibs against Dundee Utd is their forwards. That's were all their quality players are. McNulty plays on the shoulder and is a great finisher. Shankland has great feet and can finish from anywhere. Clark has had a great season and has probably outshone his illustrious fellow strikers. Keep them quiet and we are sorted with our own forwards.

[Hibs90]

It simply has to be Marciano.

[Peevemor]

It simply has to be Marciano.We don't know what was said to Macey to get him to come on loan.

We don't see him in training and probably has pros and cons when compared to Marciano.

We don't know if Macey's part of JR's long term planning.

We don't know the effect Macey's size has on penalty takers compared with Marciano.

Why not let the manager decide?

[Ringothedog]

https://www.ignitionsportsmedia.com/products/dundee-united-vs-hibernian-scottish-cup-semi-final

Semi final programme available

Thanks for that, programme ordered

[Eyrie]

We don't know what was said to Macey to get him to come on loan.

We don't see him in training and probably has pros and cons when compared to Marciano.

We don't know if Macey's part of JR's long term planning.

We don't know the effect Macey's size has on penalty takers compared with Marciano.

Why not let the manager decide?

Actually we do know that Macey is part of Ross' long term planning because he was offered a new long term deal, albeit discussions are currently on hold.

If Ross sees him as the starter next season, why wouldn't he play Macey in the semi and final? Indeed dropping him is only going to ensure that Macey will reject the deal as I think Ross has already stated that Macey is the keeper for the Cup games, and breaking his word will have consequences.

[Peevemor]

Actually we do know that Macey is part of Ross' long term planning because he was offered a new long term deal, albeit discussions are currently on hold.

If Ross sees him as the starter next season, why wouldn't he play Macey in the semi and final? Indeed dropping him is only going to ensure that Macey will reject the deal as I think Ross has already stated that Macey is the keeper for the Cup games, and breaking his word will have consequences.Exactly.

On Hibs TV prior to the Motherwell game, Cliff & Tam were saying that Macey may have been promised the cup games in order for him to agree to come on loan (as otherwise what was in it for him?). I don't know if that's accurate, but if it is then Ross is right to keep to his word, not just in terms of Macey but also for the reputation of JR & the club in general.

[Inconsequential]

We don't know what was said to Macey to get him to come on loan.

We don't see him in training and probably has pros and cons when compared to Marciano.

We don't know if Macey's part of JR's long term planning.

We don't know the effect Macey's size has on penalty takers compared with Marciano.

Why not let the manager decide? Absolutely.

[B.H.F.C]

Actually we do know that Macey is part of Ross' long term planning because he was offered a new long term deal, albeit discussions are currently on hold.

If Ross sees him as the starter next season, why wouldn't he play Macey in the semi and final? Indeed dropping him is only going to ensure that Macey will reject the deal as I think Ross has already stated that Macey is the keeper for the Cup games, and breaking his word will have consequences.

Only question Ross needs to ask himself next week, for me, is who does he think is the better goalie. It’s all about the next three weeks, don’t think we can be worrying about what happens beyond that. Remember Marciano getting left out for Laidlaw in a semi final and it not going well.

[Sir David Gray]

We don't know what was said to Macey to get him to come on loan.

We don't see him in training and probably has pros and cons when compared to Marciano.

We don't know if Macey's part of JR's long term planning.

We don't know the effect Macey's size has on penalty takers compared with Marciano.

Why not let the manager decide?

Macey's not on loan.

[Peevemor]

Macey's not on loan.I thought he was, but you're right. Doesn't change anything though.

[Peevemor]

Only question Ross needs to ask himself next week, for me, is who does he think is the better goalie. It’s all about the next three weeks, don’t think we can be worrying about what happens beyond that. Remember Marciano getting left out for Laidlaw in a semi final and it not going well.Even if it means going back on his word? That's a sure way to piss off your players.

[neil7908]

Even if it means going back on his word? That's a sure way to piss off your players.

True but it's an odd promise for the manager of Hibs to make to any player (if indeed he has) . Man City may play their second keeper in the League Cup but they don't do it in the CL, for obvious reasons. That's more the equivalent to what the SC means for us right now.

Given how massive a cup win would be for supporters, how much income it would make the club, and personally for Ross, that it would be comfortably the biggest success of his career, it would be a huge and very very risky decision to not go with the best player for our biggest game of the season. He's also going to cop a huge amount of flack (and rightly so) if Macey makes an error and we lose the game.

[Dashing Bob S]

Confirmed Dundee Utd goalkeeper siegrist is out for the rest of the season which is good news for us.

Just as well we are playing our number 2 keeper just to even things up.

There's no more corinthian, sporting outfit in Scotland than the Hibees!

(We just need to remember this after yet another semi-final defeat...)

[hibbysam]

Exactly.

On Hibs TV prior to the Motherwell game, Cliff & Tam were saying that Macey may have been promised the cup games in order for him to agree to come on loan (as otherwise what was in it for him?). I don't know if that's accurate, but if it is then Ross is right to keep to his word, not just in terms of Macey but also for the reputation of JR & the club in general.

The fact he never played in the league cup semi final tells me it isn’t accurate.

[B.H.F.C]

Even if it means going back on his word? That's a sure way to piss off your players.

I find it unlikely a manager would give a player a cast iron guarantee of playing in any game, especially when it would have been a hypothetical one at that stage. He has to play what he thinks is his best team, there really be nothing else to be considered for me.

[blackpoolhibs]

We don't know what was said to Macey to get him to come on loan.

We don't see him in training and probably has pros and cons when compared to Marciano.

We don't know if Macey's part of JR's long term planning.

We don't know the effect Macey's size has on penalty takers compared with Marciano.

Why not let the manager decide?

We do know who the best keeper is though, and that we don't win trophies very often.

Normally when trying to win things you would play your best players available, and Rocky is our best keeper.

I think it's daft not to play your best side when in sniffing distance of a cup win, and weakening your team and therefore your chances of winning it wont go down well with some, and i include myself in that.

[Peevemor]

I find it unlikely a manager would give a player a cast iron guarantee of playing in any game, especially when it would have been a hypothetical one at that stage. He has to play what he thinks is his best team, there really be nothing else to be considered for me.But he confirmed in an interview that Macey was getting the cup games. How "cast iron" that is we don't know.

[Peevemor]

We do know who the best keeper is though, and that we don't win trophies very often.

Normally when trying to win things you would play your best players available, and Rocky is our best keeper.

I think it's daft not to play your best side when in sniffing distance of a cup win, and weakening your team and therefore your chances of winning it wont go down well with some, and i include myself in that.At times Rocky might be a brilliant shot stopper, but he has faults.

It's possible that Macey is or has the potential to be a better all round keeper.

What bothers me more in all this is that Macey hasn't had time to build up the same relationship with the defence that Rocky has. I think this probably contributed toward the second goal we lost to Motherwell.

In saying that Jack Ross has definitely done enough to merit my confidence (whatever that counts for!), so at this stage I'm not going to cherry pick the decisions I like or not but let him get on with the big picture.

[Since452]

I'd stick with Macey. Cup superstition and all that. Also I can't remember Marciano ever having a good game at Hampden for club or country

[Lancs Harp]

Neither keeper is rotund enough for a cup semi final with Dundee United. :wink:

[Andy74]

But he confirmed in an interview that Macey was getting the cup games. How "cast iron" that is we don't know.

He didn’t say he’d get all cup games though.

[3pm]

We do know who the best keeper is though, and that we don't win trophies very often.

Normally when trying to win things you would play your best players available, and Rocky is our best keeper.

I think it's daft not to play your best side when in sniffing distance of a cup win, and weakening your team and therefore your chances of winning it wont go down well with some, and i include myself in that.

Mind we played Laidlaw instead of Rocky against Celtic in the League Cup Semi?

Laidlaw made an erse of the opener (at least). Rocky wouldn't have made that mistake. Go with your best team.

[Peevemor]

He didn’t say he’d get all cup games though.I got the impression it was, but I can't remember the exact wording so I'll take your word for it.

[Sir David Gray]

I got the impression it was, but I can't remember the exact wording so I'll take your word for it.

Ross' comments before the Motherwell game;

"Matt is a good keeper and I said I would give him the opportunity to play in cup ties and I will continue to do that.”

[hibsbollah]

Ross' comments before the Motherwell game;

"Matt is a good keeper and I said I would give him the opportunity to play in cup ties and I will continue to do that.”

It’s also about Craig Samson’s assessment of both keepers all week, Samson will see them far more of them than Jack Ross. If Rocky gets the gloves next week I can’t see it being likely that any relationship gets frosty about promises getting broken, partly because a lot of it will be down to Samson.

[blackpoolhibs]

At times Rocky might be a brilliant shot stopper, but he has faults.

It's possible that Macey is or has the potential to be a better all round keeper.

What bothers me more in all this is that Macey hasn't had time to build up the same relationship with the defence that Rocky has. I think this probably contributed toward the second goal we lost to Motherwell.

In saying that Jack Ross has definitely done enough to merit my confidence (whatever that counts for!), so at this stage I'm not going to cherry pick the decisions I like or not but let him get on with the big picture.

Rocky like every keeper has faults, but he's our best keeper and as i said before, we do not win cups very often.

So to give yourself the best chance of winning the cup, you need to play your best keeper.

The prize on offer this season is much more than normal, with winning the cup bringing European football until xmas too, we need to give it our all.

Playing a weakened side is just daft, especially when there is no need to.

[bigwheel]

Rocky like every keeper has faults, but he's our best keeper and as i said before, we do not win cups very often.

So to give yourself the best chance of winning the cup, you need to play your best keeper.

The prize on offer this season is much more than normal, with winning the cup bringing European football until xmas too, we need to give it our all.

Playing a weakened side is just daft, especially when there is no need to.

If he has any intent on keeping him for next season, I think he will keep to his promise to Macey, to play him in the cup games .

If we win the semi , will he keep playing him until the final ??

[Andy74]

If he has any intent on keeping him for next season, I think he will keep to his promise to Macey, to play him in the cup games .

If we win the semi , will he keep playing him until the final ??

He clearly does have an intention to have him here next year, because he’s been offered a deal, but Ross has also said that even if Macey and Dabrowski both signed he might still be looking for a replacement for Rocky, so not playing him won’t necessarily impact that as he would know he’s not signing to be a certain first choice.

We also don’t know the nature of the promise. From what Ross said you can take that he would give him opportunities to play cup games, which he has done. I haven’t heard him say he’d play in all cup games. He didn’t play the league cup semi for example.

[Onceinawhile]

Mind we played Laidlaw instead of Rocky against Celtic in the League Cup Semi?

Laidlaw made an erse of the opener (at least). Rocky wouldn't have made that mistake. Go with your best team.

Mind we played rocky in the semi v Aberdeen and he made an arsenof their second goal?

[BoomtownHibees]

If JR was basing his decision on who might be here next year, why no just play Macey in all the games?

[makaveli1875]

In a semi final you play your strongest team . If Rocky is available then he starts .

[Billy Whizz]

Utd playing their strongest team today

[Eyrie]

Mind we played rocky in the semi v Aberdeen and he made an arsenof their second goal?

Mind Marciano positioning his wall to protect the front post and McGeouch then drifting away for no reason?

[Tambo]

Rocky has been great for us and deserves to play in the semi and hopefully a final but if Jack has already said Macey will be the cup keeper then I expect Macey will start.

Macey

McGinn
McGregor
Hanlon

Boyle
Irvine
Hallberg
Newell
Doig

Doidge
Nisbet

[Lancs Harp]

Rocky has been great for us and deserves to play in the semi and hopefully a final but if Jack has already said Macey will be the cup keeper then I expect Macey will start.

Macey

McGinn
McGregor
Hanlon

Boyle
Irvine
Hallberg
Newell
Doig

Doidge
Nisbet

United struggle in semi finals against rotund keepers. Macey and Rocky need to be training in Burger King this week.

[whiskyhibby]

Rocky has been great for us and deserves to play in the semi and hopefully a final but if Jack has already said Macey will be the cup keeper then I expect Macey will start.

Macey

McGinn
McGregor
Hanlon

Boyle
Irvine
Hallberg
Newell
Doig

Doidge
Nisbet


Jack needs to pick the strongest side for the semi, if that means Rocky as #1 then that’s what he has to do

[hibbysam]

Ross should be deciding now which keeper plays in all 4 games, just one. Chopping and changing helps nobody. If Macey plays this week and we win, then he must play the other two games between then and the final.

[Aldo]

Utd playing their strongest team today

Saw that Billy and they got turned over with a quick fire double by Ross County.

Whilst it will be a very difficult game, if we turn up and play to our potential we should win this.

I actually think the type of game Utd play suits us better and hopefully they will start with their usual from 2/3 and that will hopefully create spaces for us to expose! On it from the start and take our chances!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Brightside]

Macey

McGinn Porto Hanlon

Boyle. Magennis Newell Irvine Doig

Doidge Nisbet.

[flash]

Macey

McGinn Porto Hanlon

Boyle. Magennis Newell Irvine Doig

Doidge Nisbet.
Swap keeper and that's my team.

[JimBHibees]

Macey

McGinn Porto Hanlon

Boyle. Magennis Newell Irvine Doig

Doidge Nisbet.

Has Magennis done enough to deserve a start. Rate him as a player but has generally been underwhelming

[Aldo]

Has Magennis done enough to deserve a start. Rate him as a player but has generally been underwhelming

Maybe not but maybe needs to play a bit more centrally to see best of him??


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Glory Lurker]

Is it deffo deffo that Boyle's free to play?

[Greencore]

Is it deffo deffo that Boyle's free to play?

Aye

[Glory Lurker]

Aye

Great, thanks.

[basehibby]

I agree we should be playing our best team for the semi bar none - which for me is as follows (assuming Gogic banned)

Marciano

McGinn Porto Hanlon

Boyle Hallberg Irvine Newell Doig

Doidge Nisbet

[basehibby]

Maybe not but maybe needs to play a bit more centrally to see best of him??


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Magennis has not done enough for me to deserve a start in the semi. Halberg has been a steady all round performer linking up well and showing the wherewithall to track back and cover as well as to get forward when in possession - easily next up in the absence of Gogic IMO.

[flash]

Magennis has not done enough for me to deserve a start in the semi. Halberg has been a steady all round performer linking up well and showing the wherewithall to track back and cover as well as to get forward when in possession - easily next up in the absence of Gogic IMO.

I think Magennis has a big performance in him. Hallberg definitely doesn't. I would pick Magennis on that basis.

[JimBHibees]

Maybe not but maybe needs to play a bit more centrally to see best of him??


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

He has played there in spells without really impressing. Like him and hope he does do well. Started in semi v Hearts and missed very good chance.

[Onion]

Has Magennis done enough to deserve a start. Rate him as a player but has generally been underwhelming

Not even close.

[JimBHibees]

Not even close.

Issue is we don't have many options. Think would start with Hallberg though personally not a huge fan of his but has been a more regular player and more regular in the centre.

[Ronniekirk]

Has Magennis done enough to deserve a start. Rate him as a player but has generally been underwhelming

He did very little in Semi v Hearts and he is just back from his period on the sidelines with Covid and hasn’t played a lot ,so he won’t finish the game
I don’t think we will see a good performance from him till next season unfortunately



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[GreenCastle]

Both Hallberg and Magennis really haven’t played many minutes in 2021.

Hallberg has played more minutes and should probably get the nod to play.

Marciano is the better keeper simply and should play. Macey brought some nervousness to the back line against Motherwell but we do seem to have some weird thing about winning cups and different keepers..

McNeil
Logan
Budgie

My other concern is the serious lack of options off the bench.

[GreenCastle]

Ross should be deciding now which keeper plays in all 4 games, just one. Chopping and changing helps nobody. If Macey plays this week and we win, then he must play the other two games between then and the final.

Think this is a good point too. Not a time to be experimenting - surely Rocky is out to impress unless he’s got a deal lined up.

[ian cruise]

Mind we played Laidlaw instead of Rocky against Celtic in the League Cup Semi?

Laidlaw made an erse of the opener (at least). Rocky wouldn't have made that mistake. Go with your best team.

Are we ignoring the scenario where Rocky gets the nod and sells the jerseys?

If that happens are the fans going to be OK with going out of the cup because Ross chose Marciano over Macey who got us to the final or will this place and others online just be more of the "Ross can't win big games" chat?

It's a bit simplistic to assume if Rocky plays we keep a clean sheet. He's good but he's far from flawless.

[plhibs]

I haven't a clue what the team should be, i only pray we start fast and determined to get an early goal and don't sit back. Seen that too many times and we end up fighting to defend a lead.:flag:

[Hibee Mac]

No mucking around with relatively unknown keepers when you've got Marciano fit and ready to go. I don't give a toss what Macey has or has not been promised you don't mess about in a cup semi final.

He's not had a howler but he's certainly not covered himself in glory so far, pretty sure Ross is going to start him though so he'd best hope we win.

[CMurdoch]

I agree we should be playing our best team for the semi bar none - which for me is as follows (assuming Gogic banned)

Marciano

McGinn Porto Hanlon

Boyle Hallberg Irvine Newell Doig

Doidge Nisbet

That's the best we have available although JR said last week Murphy would be in the squad for the Semi Final. He would make a good 1st tactical substitute if we are struggling to score or heaven forbid are behind.

I thought Wright did some good stuff on Saturday so would put him on the pitch ahead of Magennis who was once again Mr Invisible when he came on. I have been amazed by the nothingness of Magennis too date. Very strange.
The rest of the bench are injury subs so basically a team and options of 14 players

[Brightside]

Has Magennis done enough to deserve a start. Rate him as a player but has generally been underwhelming

Yeh if he’d let him play central we might see what he’s all about

[MrRobot]

I think Magennis has a big performance in him. Hallberg definitely doesn't. I would pick Magennis on that basis.

What’s that based on? In the games they have both played this season, Hallberg has had a much better impact and has chipped in with some goals and assists too.

Hallberg starts for me.

[flash]

What’s that based on? In the games they have both played this season, Hallberg has had a much better impact and has chipped in with some goals and assists too.

Hallberg starts for me.
It's just a gut feeling based on nothing to be perfectly honest.

[Bostonhibby]

Yeh if he’d let him play central we might see what he’s all about

Good friends with a st.Mirren fan who always rated Magennis. He says the same thing. Based on what I've seen to date I'd still go with Hallberg who has done better when brought on.

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[Ronniekirk]

That's the best we have available although JR said last week Murphy would be in the squad for the Semi Final. He would make a good 1st tactical substitute if we are struggling to score or heaven forbid are behind.

I thought Wright did some good stuff on Saturday so would put him on the pitch ahead of Magennis who was once again Mr Invisible when he came on. I have been amazed by the nothingness of Magennis too date. Very strange.
The rest of the bench are injury subs so basically a team and options of 14 players

Murphy isn’t match fit This wouldn’t be the game to bring him back in
Maybe last twenty minutes depending on what’s needed at that point


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[IanM]

Premier sports and not BBC?

[calumhibee1]

Premier sports and not BBC?

Correct

[S4uzee]

What’s that based on? In the games they have both played this season, Hallberg has had a much better impact and has chipped in with some goals and assists too.

Hallberg starts for me.

Don’t understand that either. I’d like to see magennis pass completion for when he plays, must be under 50%

[calumhibee1]

What’s that based on? In the games they have both played this season, Hallberg has had a much better impact and has chipped in with some goals and assists too.

Hallberg starts for me.

:agree:

Magennis simply cannot start the semi final. Hallberg all day or a change of shape.

[Souter96Mac]

Not sure if anyone has already mentioned this, but hopefully Doidge can continue his great SC scoring record. I make it 9 goals in 8 games in the SC, with a good record against United in all competitions - 5 in 5.

[scoopyboy]

For me nine of the starting eleven is sorted.

Either Macey or Marciano in goals and either Magennis or Hallberg in for Gogic.

[Billy Whizz]

For me nine of the starting eleven is sorted.

Either Macey or Marciano in goals and either Magennis or Hallberg in for Gogic.

I agree

[Tyler Durden]

Don’t understand that either. I’d like to see magennis pass completion for when he plays, must be under 50%

75%. He has only made 3 starts though and 6 sub appearances.

I would go with Hallberg or possibly even Wright centrally, rather than play Magennis at this stage.

[18Craig75]

I don’t think Hallberg has ever let us down. Although Magennis is the more promising player, he hasn’t showed it at hibs YET. Not sure his head is in the right place for it this season.

[jacomo]

:agree:

Magennis simply cannot start the semi final. Hallberg all day or a change of shape.


You’re probably right although the idea doesn’t fill me with confidence.

Hallberg just hasn’t got it imo. I’m still hopeful Magennis will prove he does.

[GibbytheHibby2]

75%. He has only made 3 starts though and 6 sub appearances.

I would go with Hallberg or possibly even Wright centrally, rather than play Magennis at this stage.

Hallberg should start. Drey Wright can carry the kit if he must be involved. I’d much rather see a youngster get time than this waste of a jersey.

[flash]

Hallberg should start. Drey Wright can carry the kit if he must be involved. I’d much rather see a youngster get time than this waste of a jersey.

Not sure the last sentence is really necessary.

[weecounty hibby]

At this time it has to be Hallberg to start. Magennis still not quite on it yet and Wright is yet to show anything to suggest he should start

[KingPat4]

Macey

McGinn Porto Hanlon

Boyle. Magennis Newell Irvine Doig

Doidge Nisbet.

Daz for Porto, he's making too many mistakes and cost us the last semi.

[calumhibee1]

You’re probably right although the idea doesn’t fill me with confidence.

Hallberg just hasn’t got it imo. I’m still hopeful Magennis will prove he does.

I’m not a massive Hallberg fan but (and I don’t want this to sound like I’m needlessly having a go at Magennis again but it probably will) I feel like he’s less likely to cause us damage himself. If Hallberg is in there I don’t expect him to make an arse of anything but I do expect him to be pretty average. I can’t say the same for Magennis.

[Brightside]

Daz for Porto, he's making too many mistakes and cost us the last semi.

Not a chance that will happen.

[GreenNWhiteArmy]

Starting to get really nervous now. So much focus on social media (not just from our club) about the match in 2016. Utd will no doubt be using that as fuel to fire their players up

Play it "safe" by Hallberg replacing Gogic. need that defensive stability when we play Newell and Irvine

Martin Boyle is due a stand out performance at hampden, not really happened for him yet

[TheHibernator]

I agree we should be playing our best team for the semi bar none - which for me is as follows (assuming Gogic banned)

Marciano

McGinn Porto Hanlon

Boyle Hallberg Irvine Newell Doig

Doidge Nisbet

This would be my team

[TheHibernator]

Hallberg is a far more reliable option in centre mid and is the only one available you could really call a defensive midfielder. Starting Magennis would make us too attack heavy in midfield IMO, other than that i've seen absolutely nothing from him that would warrant a start in such a big game.

[JXM73]

Could Porteous play the gogic role with daz and hanlon shoring up the defence... also gives as additional presence at set pieces...

Gray

Mcginn macgregor hanlon doig

Porteous irvine newell

Boyle Nisbet doidge

[Smartie]

Could Porteous play the gogic role with daz and hanlon shoring up the defence... also gives as additional presence at set pieces...

Gray

Mcginn macgregor hanlon doig

Porteous irvine newell

Boyle Nisbet doidge

I don't think this is the craziest suggestion ever.

Well, sticking David Gray in goals IS the craziest suggestion ever, but playing Porteous in midfield fixes the problems of being without a defensive midfielder, having a an error prone player playing at centre half and allows us to still have Porteous in the team to attack and defend set pieces. Not sure I'd be wanting to try it out for the first time in a cup semi-final, but it's not as daft a suggestion as it might sound at first.

[JXM73]

I don't think this is the craziest suggestion ever.

Well, sticking David Gray in goals IS the craziest suggestion ever, but playing Porteous in midfield fixes the problems of being without a defensive midfielder, having a an error prone player playing at centre half and allows us to still have Porteous in the team to attack and defend set pieces. Not sure I'd be wanting to try it out for the first time in a cup semi-final, but it's not as daft a suggestion as it might sound at first.

So used to hearing the macey grey joke... 🙊🙉🙈

[Alex Trager]

Could Porteous play the gogic role with daz and hanlon shoring up the defence... also gives as additional presence at set pieces...

Gray

Mcginn macgregor hanlon doig

Porteous irvine newell

Boyle Nisbet doidge

Interesting suggestion that actually.

One I wouldn’t be against

[Aldo]

Starting to get really nervous now. So much focus on social media (not just from our club) about the match in 2016. Utd will no doubt be using that as fuel to fire their players up

Play it "safe" by Hallberg replacing Gogic. need that defensive stability when we play Newell and Irvine

Martin Boyle is due a stand out performance at hampden, not really happened for him yet

I’m always nervous in these types of games but would agree that Hallberg should start in place of Gogic.

This is not a game for experiments but a game to play our strongest team and that for me includes Rocky in goals!

As for Boyle, I really hope Nisbet is fit as Boyle plays better out wide for me. I really hope he puts on an unstoppable/unplayable performance on Saturday!


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[Andy74]

St Johnstone missing 4 players for their game after latest Covid testing.

[Allez Hibs]

Could Porteous play the gogic role with daz and hanlon shoring up the defence... also gives as additional presence at set pieces...

Gray

Mcginn macgregor hanlon doig

Porteous irvine newell

Boyle Nisbet doidge

Good suggestion 👍

[Callum_62]

Could Porteous play the gogic role with daz and hanlon shoring up the defence... also gives as additional presence at set pieces...

Gray

Mcginn macgregor hanlon doig

Porteous irvine newell

Boyle Nisbet doidgeWe could

But surley we play Newell there or Hallberg

Has Porto ever played DM?

I certainly wouldn't do it in a semi final

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[Onceinawhile]

St Johnstone missing 4 players for their game after latest Covid testing.

Any idea who?

Fairly confident if we get to the final that we can take st mirren, not so st johnstone.

[Andy74]

Good suggestion 👍

It’s a terrible suggestion.

We’ve enough midfield players to not start playing a centre half there for the first time in a huge game.

[flash]

It’s a terrible suggestion.

We’ve enough midfield players to not start playing a centre half there for the first time in a huge game.

Terrifying that more than one poster thinks this is a good idea.

[Sir David Gray]

Any idea who?

Fairly confident if we get to the final that we can take st mirren, not so st johnstone.

St Johnstone fan account on Twitter seems to suggest it's Elliot Parish, Liam Craig, Stevie May and Murray Davidson but I think it's just a rumour.

[Moulin Yarns]

St Johnstone missing 4 players for their game after latest Covid testing.

https://www.perthstjohnstonefc.co.uk/news/article/club-statement-1-2

2 positive and 2 negative but self isolated.

[EI255]

St Johnstone fan account on Twitter seems to suggest it's Elliot Parish, Liam Craig, Stevie May and Murray Davidson but I think it's just a rumour.If so, 4 of their biggest names.

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[Billy Whizz]

Good suggestion 👍

Gray in goals😂

[SMAXXA]

I’m not a massive Hallberg fan but (and I don’t want this to sound like I’m needlessly having a go at Magennis again but it probably will) I feel like he’s less likely to cause us damage himself. If Hallberg is in there I don’t expect him to make an arse of anything but I do expect him to be pretty average. I can’t say the same for Magennis.

Why because he gave away a penalty or are there other examples your basing this on?

[B.H.F.C]

I think Magennis will play. He got a reasonable amount of time on the pitch last week and Ross likes using him from the left which means we can change shape as the game goes, something else Ross likes doing.

[calumhibee1]

Why because he gave away a penalty or are there other examples your basing this on?

Based on his overall play.

He gives the ball away for too much, his touch has been poor and his decision making has been poor.

Hallberg is a much safer option, especially for such a pivotal game and I’d much sooner trust him to slip into the team than Magennis if I was JR.

[Brightside]

Terrifying that more than one poster thinks this is a good idea.

One of them is clearly a wind up merchant though and best added to the ignore function.

[JimBHibees]

Terrifying that more than one poster thinks this is a good idea.

Yep absolute nonsensical

[Allez Hibs]

It was only a suggestion from the boy and he is getting dogs abuse. When you think about it, if it's a direct replacement for Gogic, it is not that daft a suggestion. Porteous has pace about him, can easily break up the play and pass the ball 5 yards. It would offer a big presence in front of the back line.

Not a daft suggestion for Tynecastle next season.

[calumhibee1]

It was only a suggestion from the boy and he is getting dogs abuse. When you think about it, if it's a direct replacement for Gogic, it is not that daft a suggestion. Porteous has pace about him, can was easily break up the play and pass the ball 5 yards. It would offer a big presence in front of the back line.

Not a daft suggestion for Tynecastle next season.

It’s not the game to be trying it, it’s not even something I want to see us try ever really but seeing people talk about putting posters on ignore for itheir suggestion of a starting line up is hilarious.

[hibbysam]

It was only a suggestion from the boy and he is getting dogs abuse. When you think about it, if it's a direct replacement for Gogic, it is not that daft a suggestion. Porteous has pace about him, can was easily break up the play and pass the ball 5 yards. It would offer a big presence in front of the back line.

Not a daft suggestion for Tynecastle next season.

But has never played there, would have no positional awareness, and is a huge part of our central defence, for our biggest game of the season.

[ancient hibee]

Ross may gamble on United playing three upfront and switch to a back four.

[JXM73]

Not at the wind up at all, was just putting out an idea for discussion.. is that not what a forum is for? I'm on enough ignore lists to not give a **** after suggesting letting stevenson go to aberdeen...

if anyone watches Porteous he likes to drive forward from the back, DM would give him ability to do so while still keeping his defensive minded game and have plenty cover... but lets play Hallberg or Magennis as DM who never play there either... i agree a semi final is the wrong time to experiment...but we have to adapt as Gogic got himself suspended...

[Since452]

It's Hibs so absolutely no idea how Saturday is going to go. Given up trying to predict our Hampden results. Will take it as it comes.

[Brightside]

To be clear its Allezz Hibs i have on ignore. I'm all for people putting up any line-up they fancy.

[danhibees1875]

Terrifying that more than one poster thinks this is a good idea.

You can see the logic behind it though? Any lapse in concentration (I don't think there will be one this weekend) is mitigated, and an additional aerial threat - offensively and defensively.

Not for me personally though, Porteous can be good for a CB with distribution but not convinced he has enough of the technical side for him to be enough use in the middle on the ball.

I also can't really imagine Porteous chasing people down in the same manner as Gogic. A role more suited to hallberg I suspect.

Keeper
McGinn Porteous Hanlon
Boyle Irvine Newall Hallberg Doig
Nisbet Doidge

:aok:

[MWHIBBIES]

Terrifying that more than one poster thinks this is a good idea.

Indeed. Remember ambrose in midfield? and he was a much better footballer than Ryan. Would be an utter disaster. We have central midfield players ready to come in and they will.

[MWHIBBIES]

You can see the logic behind it though? Any lapse in concentration (I don't think there will be one this weekend) is mitigated, and an additional aerial threat - offensively and defensively.

Not for me personally though, Porteous can be good for a CB with distribution but not convinced he has enough of the technical side for him to be enough use in the middle on the ball.

I also can't really imagine Porteous chasing people down in the same manner as Gogic. A role more suited to hallberg I suspect.

Keeper
McGinn Porteous Hanlon
Boyle Irvine Newall Hallberg Doig
Nisbet Doidge

:aok:

Lapse in concentration is not mitigated. You can quite easily lose a game from central midfield.

[wills]

I’d like to see the following

Macey/Marciano

Porteous McGregor. Hanlon

McGinn Irvine Newell Doig

Boyle

Nisbet Doige

with Boyle given a free role to play right or left

[Northernhibee]

Macey

McGinn
Porteous
Hanlon

Boyle
Doig

Hallberg
Newell
Irvine

Doidge
Nisbet

[danhibees1875]

Lapse in concentration is not mitigated. You can quite easily lose a game from central midfield.

The effects of them are mitigated is what I was meaning. If he passes across the centre circle to a United player it'll probably be okay. :greengrin

[calumhibee1]

Indeed. Remember ambrose in midfield? and he was a much better footballer than Ryan. Would be an utter disaster. We have central midfield players ready to come in and they will.

Paul Hanlon played centre mid against Falkirk at ER and was exceptional. Then we got a red card and he was moved back.

Bamba done it for us loads and was brilliant.

I don’t actually want us to do it, but it’s not unheard of for a centre half to play well as a holding midfielder.

[MWHIBBIES]

Paul Hanlon played centre mid against Falkirk at ER and was exceptional. Then we got a red card and he was moved back.

Bamba done it for us loads and was brilliant.

I don’t actually want us to do it, but it’s not unheard of for a centre half to play well as a holding midfielder.Bamba done well, that is true. Bit of a small sample size for Hanlon. Both are also much better with the ball at their feet than Ryan.


The effects of them are mitigated is what I was meaning. If he passes across the centre circle to a United player it'll probably be okay. :greengrin

Will it? Passing from that position is vital. It isn't just defensive attributes you need to play that role.

[Northernhibee]

I want Porto in central defence. Knowing his character he will be dying to make up for last week.

[mcohibs]

Marciano

McGinn
Mcgregor
Hanlon

Boyle
Irvine
Gogic
Newell
Doig

Doidge
Nisbet

[Northernhibee]

Marciano

McGinn
Mcgregor
Hanlon

Boyle
Irvine
Gogic
Newell
Doig

Doidge
Nisbet
Gogic is suspended.

[danhibees1875]

Will it? Passing from that position is vital. It isn't just defensive attributes you need to play that role.

Yes. :aok:

[Smartie]

Terrifying that more than one poster thinks this is a good idea.

I guess a few of us just have bad memories of some of the midfield performances we’ve put in over the past few years when we’ve tried to build a unit out of midfielders who are weak defensively.

On balance I think we should go with Porteous at CB and Hallberg in midfield, but it wouldn’t surprise me in the least to see Porteous culpable for another few goals, for the midfield to be all over the shop, for us to lose and then have an inquest afterwards wondering why we did that when it was clear to see what was going to happen.

Gogic is a huge loss and Porto’s gaffes are a concern but I think we should probably go with what is most sensible.

[calumhibee1]

Bamba done well, that is true. Bit of a small sample size for Hanlon. Both are also much better with the ball at their feet than Ryan.



Will it? Passing from that position is vital. It isn't just defensive attributes you need to play that role.

I think the Hanlon sample size was about 30 mins before the red card :greengrin

He was that good though that I can’t believe we never done it again.

[Billy Whizz]

I think the Hanlon sample size was about 30 mins before the red card :greengrin

He was that good though that I can’t believe we never done it again.

Played all his youth football in this position

[Since452]

Daz in for Porteous. His experience could be vital and he did very well against United the last time

[the tornadoe]

Porto playing defensive midfielder would push Newell further up where he is much more likely to influence the game for ghe better

[Smartie]

Porto playing defensive midfielder would push Newell further up where he is much more likely to influence the game for ghe better

Gogic hasn’t really done that though, so I’m not sure Porteous would?

The midfield has been very hit and miss lately and the poor performance against St Johnstone might have instigated a change anyway.

I don’t think that change would have been Gogic dropping out, but Gogic / Newell / Irvine hasn’t convinced me overall, even if they started the Livi and Motherwell games very strongly.

Newell has the quality to make the difference though, and finding a way to get the best out of him might well be key here.

There’s that nagging doubt that Hallberg, Newell and Irvine would be falling over each other trying to do the same thing.

[Peevemor]

Gogic hasn’t really done that though, so I’m not sure Porteous would?

The midfield has been very hit and miss lately and the poor performance against St Johnstone might have instigated a change anyway.

I don’t think that change would have been Gogic dropping out, but Gogic / Newell / Irvine hasn’t convinced me overall, even if they started the Livi and Motherwell games very strongly.

Newell has the quality to make the difference though, and finding a way to get the best out of him might well be key here.

There’s that nagging doubt that Hallberg, Newell and Irvine would be falling over each other trying to do the same thing.When we have the ball, Gogic's often further forward than Newell.

[B.H.F.C]

Gogic hasn’t really done that though, so I’m not sure Porteous would?

The midfield has been very hit and miss lately and the poor performance against St Johnstone might have instigated a change anyway.

I don’t think that change would have been Gogic dropping out, but Gogic / Newell / Irvine hasn’t convinced me overall, even if they started the Livi and Motherwell games very strongly.

Newell has the quality to make the difference though, and finding a way to get the best out of him might well be key here.

There’s that nagging doubt that Hallberg, Newell and Irvine would be falling over each other trying to do the same thing.

Loads of talk about needing a something a bit more solid in the middle of the park but I really don’t think that’s our issue. It’s a lack of anything going the other way that is more of a problem for me. Even without Gogic, I don’t expect Utd to be running over us.

It’s the old thing of the first goal. If we get it we’ll be likely be fine. If we lose it, Utd will just sit in let our midfield have the ball so they can pass it from side to side without really doing much, as we’ve seen pretty much every time we’ve went behind this season.

[Hibees1973]

I'm not in the frame of mind for any chit-chat about this game.....just win it Hibs.

[matty_f]

Terrifying that more than one poster thinks this is a good idea.

I’m glad I’m not the only one who thought that!!

[Billy Whizz]

I’m glad I’m not the only one who thought that!!

Jack doesn’t do things like this, so I wouldn’t worry

[the tornadoe]

I’m glad I’m not the only one who thought that!!

I remember us playing a keeper who hadn't played a game for months, grossly overweight ( for a pro-footballer ) and looked totally and utterly out of place in the warm up.........

[HH81]

How is everyone feeling ahead of the game?

I fancy us now it is getting closer but nervous at the same time.

[flash]

I remember us playing a keeper who hadn't played a game for months, grossly overweight ( for a pro-footballer ) and looked totally and utterly out of place in the warm up.........

Aye but he was playing in the right position.

[Bobby's Cinema]

To deal with the Gogic shaped hole in the middle of the park, it's a shame we haven't tried Lewy at left back with Doig pushed further forward up to now.

Lewy Mr Dependable and that would allow you to get all the benefits of Doig's engine charging forward, keep Newell and Irvine central without having to decide between the somewhat unconvincing central mid cover that we have.

But as others have said, now is not the time to mix things up. (See Marv out on the left experiment for Livi in the league cup final).
I'm sure Hallberg will do OK and expect him to come in and give you a 6/10 in the middle without making any clangers but without doing anything of note.

[.Sean.]

How is everyone feeling ahead of the game?

I fancy us now it is getting closer but nervous at the same time.
Fancy us but I’m certainly not nervous. Being perfectly honest I feel really flat about it, and that’s purely cause I’ll no be there. Taking nothing away from players and management over what could end up an exceptional season all things considered but I can’t wait to get this season over and done with and out the way, and back inside Easter Road come August, and to a similar extent Hampden which has been our second home recently.


3 nil Hibs

[Northernhibee]

To deal with the Gogic shaped hole in the middle of the park, it's a shame we haven't tried Lewy at left back with Doig pushed further forward up to now.

Lewy Mr Dependable and that would allow you to get all the benefits of Doig's engine charging forward, keep Newell and Irvine central without having to decide between the somewhat unconvincing central mid cover that we have.

But as others have said, now is not the time to mix things up. (See Marv out on the left experiment for Livi in the league cup final).
I'm sure Hallberg will do OK and expect him to come in and give you a 6/10 in the middle without making any clangers but without doing anything of note.

If we face St Johnstone in the final I'd play Lewis from the start. He can put good crosses in from deep and we've struggled to get the ball down out wide and make the most of Doig and Boyle against them.

[The dalmeny]

How is everyone feeling ahead of the game?

I fancy us now it is getting closer but nervous at the same time.

Want to get the first goal

[Allez Hibs]

2-0 Hibs, feel like if we put in a solid professional performance we will win without any drama.

Hopefully Boyles pace gives them real problems and he can have himself a landmark game.

[the tornadoe]

Aye but he was playing in the right position.

True.. but it didn't look like a good idea before kick off. Not saying Porto as DM is a good idea but good players can adapt and be competent in unusual situations.

[Sean1875]

Nerves really starting to kick in now, certainly glad we're the Saturday game rather than the Sunday. Really hope we can just start strongly and blitz them in the first half, would be fairly unbearable going into the last 15 mins holding onto a 1 goal lead or it still being even.

[The dalmeny]

United make club statement asking fans to stay away from Tannadice for team leaving today

[AugustaHibs]

If we face St Johnstone in the final I'd play Lewis from the start. He can put good crosses in from deep and we've struggled to get the ball down out wide and make the most of Doig and Boyle against them.

Lewis can put good balls in? I love Lewy but I’m sorry his crossing is some of the worst I’ve ever seen from full back.

[scoopyboy]

I thought after 21/05/2016 I would never be nervous about a game ever again, I was wrong.

Starting to get edgy but quietly confident.

Could do with an easy semi final win for a change.

:flag::flag::flag:

GGTTH

[calumhibee1]

I thought after 21/05/2016 I would never be nervous about a game ever again, I was wrong.

Starting to get edgy but quietly confident.

Could do with an easy semi final win for a change.

:flag::flag::flag:

GGTTH

Imagine an easy semi final. Think I’ve only seen that in 2001 v Livi. Every other one has been excruciating

[hibsbollah]

Lewis can put good balls in? I love Lewy but I’m sorry his crossing is some of the worst I’ve ever seen from full back.

Apparently we’ve got Porteous playing as a midfielder now so anything is possible :agree:

Accurate crossing is not Lewis’s strength but I wouldn’t say he’s as bad as you say. There’s been loads of times he’s knocked one deep for an assist , usually to someone on the opposite back post.

[AugustaHibs]

Apparently we’ve got Porteous playing as a midfielder now so anything is possible :agree:

Accurate crossing is not Lewis’s strength but I wouldn’t say he’s as bad as you say. There’s been loads of times he’s knocked one deep for an assist , usually to someone on the opposite back post.

My biggest problem with Lewis is the fact he doesn’t look up. Cant count the number of times he hits the bye line or plays a deep cross and doesn’t even have a look to where he’s putting it.

Seems like sometimes he just puts balls in the box because that’s what full backs do rather than actually trying to pick someone out

[hibsbollah]

My biggest problem with Lewis is the fact he doesn’t look up. Cant count the number of times he hits the bye line or plays a deep cross and doesn’t even have a look to where he’s putting it.

Seems like sometimes he just puts balls in the box because that’s what full backs do rather than actually trying to pick someone out

He’s just shy.

[Pagan Hibernia]

How is everyone feeling ahead of the game?

I fancy us now it is getting closer but nervous at the same time.

usual pre semi final tingling of nerves and excitement. The fact we’re favourites makes the nerves 100 times worse than if we were playing tweedledum or tweedledee from Glasgow.

Half a dozen pints before kick off tomorrow will sort me out.

[Aldo]

My biggest problem with Lewis is the fact he doesn’t look up. Cant count the number of times he hits the bye line or plays a deep cross and doesn’t even have a look to where he’s putting it.

Seems like sometimes he just puts balls in the box because that’s what full backs do rather than actually trying to pick someone out

I’ve not got a problem at all with Lewis. He’s a left back and is a defender and his role to an extent is too defend.

What I will say in his defence at least he gets the cross in and doesn’t hit the first defender.

He knows his limitations and tbh we all do. His strengths are defending not attacking... which I know is part of modern day football!


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[B.H.F.C]

I’ve not got a problem at all with Lewis. He’s a left back and is a defender and his role to an extent is too defend.

What I will say in his defence at least he gets the cross in and doesn’t hit the first defender.

He knows his limitations and tbh we all do. His strengths are defending not attacking... which I know is part of modern day football!


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I see Doig a bit differently to most I think. He’s done all right in an attacking sense but probably not contributed much more than Stevenson would have (although there is obvious potential to improve that with the way he plays).

However, he’s been a big part of our defensive improvement because, for all Lewis is seen as being solid, I thought he was really poor defensively last year and I think that’s the main reason he was replaced.

[Aldo]

I see Doig a bit differently to most I think. He’s done all right in an attacking sense but probably not contributed much more than Stevenson would have (although there is obvious potential to improve that with the way he plays).

However, he’s been a big part of our defensive improvement because, for all Lewis is seen as being solid, I thought he was really poor defensively last year.

Very well put!

By his own standards Lewis hasn’t performed!


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[MWHIBBIES]

Lewis can put good balls in? I love Lewy but I’m sorry his crossing is some of the worst I’ve ever seen from full back.

It really isn't. Plenty of assists and good crosses over the years. It's just become a fact that his crossing is apparently rubbish. Gray and Mcginn are worse than Lewis with crossing. Doig isn't really very good either.

[flash]

It really isn't. Plenty of assists and good crosses over the years. It's just become a fact that his crossing is apparently rubbish. Gray and Mcginn are worse than Lewis with crossing. Doig isn't really very good either.

Not sure why your defence of one player needs to end with a dig at another.

[Saint Hibee]

How is everyone feeling ahead of the game?

I fancy us now it is getting closer but nervous at the same time.

Can't deny I'm quite nervous. Dundee United fair demolished Aberdeen in the last round and could feasibly do that to us. However, like others have said, I think if we attack early and get the first goal, we should hopefully be okay ...

[MWHIBBIES]

Not sure why your defence of one player needs to end with a dig at another.

It's not a dig. I'm comparing him to others, just as the person I'm replying to did.

The players I've mentioned all have many qualities, they may even all be better than Lewis. But compared to them his crossing is the best of the bunch imo.

[gbhibby]

No problems playing Halberg as DM but think Doig could do a job there as well. Doig running through the middle at their central defenders will be another option.

[Moulin Yarns]

Those folks arguing against playing Porto in midfield, think how it worked for St Johnstone in the quarter final playing Zander Clarke as centre forward :wink:


Only joking guys.

[BS44]

Would Dundee Utd be allowed to sign a emergency keeper for tomorrow? Been told that Czech guy at hearts has signed for someone to play in one of this weekend's semi finals

[Heisenberg]

Would Dundee Utd be allowed to sign a emergency keeper for tomorrow? Been told that Czech guy at hearts has signed for someone to play in one of this weekend's semi finals

Think they already signed someone before their last game. Ross Doohan from Celtc.

[GordonHFC]

Would Dundee Utd be allowed to sign a emergency keeper for tomorrow? Been told that Czech guy at hearts has signed for someone to play in one of this weekend's semi finals

Signed for St J

[007]

For anyone wanting to reminisce ahead of tomorrow's game.

1st half
https://hibstv.hibernianfc.co.uk/video/996

2nd half
https://hibstv.hibernianfc.co.uk/video/997

Highlights
https://hibstv.hibernianfc.co.uk/video/1000

[Smartie]

Lewis’ crossing was poor at times earlier in his career but it’s become a myth with little basis in fact.

His final ball like every player doesn’t come off every time but is often of a very high standard.

Defensively he is excellent.

My main gripe with Lewis is his reluctance to carry the ball and drive down the line when it is the right thing to do, instead safely cutting back. I wouldn’t mind if he got tackled the odd time.

He’s still a very good player and has few weaknesses. It was going to take a very good player to dislodge him from the team, which Doig is.

I wouldn’t bet against him being back to 1st choice LB next season, and I wouldn’t be disappointed if he was.

[B.H.F.C]

Lewis’ crossing was poor at times earlier in his career but it’s become a myth with little basis in fact.

His final ball like every player doesn’t come off every time but is often of a very high standard.

Defensively he is excellent.

My main gripe with Lewis is his reluctance to carry the ball and drive down the line when it is the right thing to do, instead safely cutting back. I wouldn’t mind if he got tackled the odd time.

He’s still a very good player and has few weaknesses. It was going to take a very good player to dislodge him from the team, which Doig is.

I wouldn’t bet against him being back to 1st choice LB next season, and I wouldn’t be disappointed if he was.

That last bit, I really hope not. That would be a step backwards. I actually don’t think it’s that unlikely but it would be a step back the way for me.

[Smartie]

That last bit, I really hope not. That would be a step backwards. I actually don’t think it’s that unlikely but it would be a step back the way for me.

There won’t be many players who wouldn’t be a step down from arguably the most promising left back in the country though.

I’d fancy us doing something similar again - get a very promising youngster and challenge them to become better than Lewis.

[bingo70]

https://twitter.com/ceresarabs/status/1390684120402087943?s=21

Dundee United getting a good send off today.

[CMurdoch]

20 hours until the game and I'm getting nervous!

[The Modfather]

There won’t be many players who wouldn’t be a step down from arguably the most promising left back in the country though.

I’d fancy us doing something similar again - get a very promising youngster and challenge them to become better than Lewis.

Doig’s energy and athleticism alone has been a big factor in our improvement from last season IMO. Stevenson has been a great servant, and still as fit as anyone, but he’s no longer quick enough of young enough for what we need from our full backs if we’re to compete regularly for 3rd & 4th, again IMO. He’s a man for a specific job now and can still contribute.

[GreenCastle]

Dundee Utd were very good in the game against Aberdeen.

Will they play at the same intensity ? McNulty and Shankland can score goals..

Both the last semi finals we lost we had a chances and missed them.

We have to be clinical tomorrow.

There has been a lot of chat about winning important games - getting to a final would be massive and then be 50/50 on the day to take home silverware. I don’t care how we win tomorrow - just win and get us to the final!.

[Hibs1969]

I thought after 21/05/2016 I would never be nervous about a game ever again, I was wrong.

Starting to get edgy but quietly confident.

Could do with an easy semi final win for a change.

:flag::flag::flag:

GGTTH

Since we won our semi against United in 2016 our record in semis has been dreadful starting with conceding a goal v Aberdeen in 20 seconds. All of them have been sickeners in one way or another. It’s time to right that wrong tomorrow.

[Allez Hibs]

Lewis’ crossing was poor at times earlier in his career but it’s become a myth with little basis in fact.

His final ball like every player doesn’t come off every time but is often of a very high standard.

Defensively he is excellent.

My main gripe with Lewis is his reluctance to carry the ball and drive down the line when it is the right thing to do, instead safely cutting back. I wouldn’t mind if he got tackled the odd time.

He’s still a very good player and has few weaknesses. It was going to take a very good player to dislodge him from the team, which Doig is.

I wouldn’t bet against him being back to 1st choice LB next season, and I wouldn’t be disappointed if he was.

Josh Doig is one of the success stories of the season surely.

[Crunchie]

For anyone wanting to reminisce ahead of tomorrow's game.

1st half
https://hibstv.hibernianfc.co.uk/video/996

2nd half
https://hibstv.hibernianfc.co.uk/video/997

Highlights
https://hibstv.hibernianfc.co.uk/video/1000
Watched it on tv and didn't they put us through the mill, I'll take a similar display/result tomorrow. If we make the final we're winning it :wink:

[Northernhibee]

For anyone wanting to reminisce ahead of tomorrow's game.

1st half
https://hibstv.hibernianfc.co.uk/video/996

2nd half
https://hibstv.hibernianfc.co.uk/video/997

Highlights
https://hibstv.hibernianfc.co.uk/video/1000

That penalty from Cummings made my blood boil all over again (and his second one was ***** too) :greengrin

[JohnMcM]

I’m really, really, really worried about semi-final day tomorrow and how things will turn out in the future. I have some seedlings to transplant.

[O'Rourke3]

My biggest problem with Lewis is the fact he doesn’t look up. Cant count the number of times he hits the bye line or plays a deep cross and doesn’t even have a look to where he’s putting it.

Seems like sometimes he just puts balls in the box because that’s what full backs do rather than actually trying to pick someone outIt was either Stein or Shankley who stated its up to the forwards to get on the end of the cross not the crossers job to put it where they wanted.

Sent from my SM-G965F using Tapatalk

[SJNB Hibby]

Lewis’ crossing was poor at times earlier in his career but it’s become a myth with little basis in fact.

His final ball like every player doesn’t come off every time but is often of a very high standard.

Defensively he is excellent.

My main gripe with Lewis is his reluctance to carry the ball and drive down the line when it is the right thing to do, instead safely cutting back. I wouldn’t mind if he got tackled the odd time.

He’s still a very good player and has few weaknesses. It was going to take a very good player to dislodge him from the team, which Doig is.

I wouldn’t bet against him being back to 1st choice LB next season, and I wouldn’t be disappointed if he was.

His "weakness" and it would be mine too, he cant cross with his right foot

[B.H.F.C]

There won’t be many players who wouldn’t be a step down from arguably the most promising left back in the country though.

I’d fancy us doing something similar again - get a very promising youngster and challenge them to become better than Lewis.

I disagree with the first point, to an extent. Doig has obviously been good, but it’s because of the potential to be better that folk want to sign him.

I think we could get someone to play to a similar standard to Doig, they just won’t be 18 and likely to attract a seven figure bid so soon.

[hibsbollah]

I’m really, really, really worried about semi-final day tomorrow and how things will turn out in the future. I have some seedlings to transplant.

Depending on the type of plant, I’d leave your seedlings until the weather is more clement. Early plantings in a Scottish climate not a good idea

[JohnMcM]

Depending on the type of plant, I’d leave your seedlings until the weather is more clement. Early plantings in a Scottish climate not a good idea

Thank you. My mind is now at rest. My cactus seedlings can wait a wee while before going out then 😂

[GreenNWhiteArmy]

Nervous now

Captain obvioua but think we need an early goal to calm the players. We should've been a couple of goals up on both the semis we've played at Hampden recently and that could play on the minds if we don't get that goal.

Said it earlier in the week, Boyle is due a big performance at the national stadium...

[JohnMcM]

Nervous now

Captain obvioua but think we need an early goal to calm the players. We should've been a couple of goals up on both the semis we've played at Hampden recently and that could play on the minds if we don't get that goal.

Said it earlier in the week, Boyle is due a big performance at the national stadium...

Hopefully in the final.

[GreenNWhiteArmy]

Hopefully in the final.

Deal 🤝

[Iggy Pope]

It was either Stein or Shankley who stated its up to the forwards to get on the end of the cross not the crossers job to put it where they wanted.

Sent from my SM-G965F using Tapatalk

Both of them spoke pish from time to time though and without the use of a 15ft neck.

[RoYO!]

Will United dare play such a high line vs us as they did vs the Dons?

I imagine they will sit in more and try and hit us on the break. They will take heart from the breakaway goals vs aberdeen. Probably doubling up on boyle as that has proven effective.

I'd like to see bravery on the ball. Carry the ball into space and draw men towards and off their man. Knocking it side to side 10 yards into their half and trying to find that killer ball is far less likely to work vs them. Wanting to see an in your face running game. Too many games where our players seem to go 10,20 mins having zero impact.

I'd also like to see a definitive plan B and so on. Something I just havent seen enough evidence of this season. If it's going badly I dont trust us to change it. If its flat I dont trust us to lift it. We may well come flying out the traps. I guess the main worry is not what united team turns up, rather which hibs team does...

[Smartie]

Josh Doig is one of the success stories of the season surely.

Oh absolutely, and so successful I expect him to be off in the summer for a decent fee.

[GreenCastle]

Who is likely to be on the bench tomorrow ?

Do we have any forward options apart from Drey Wright ?!

[Heisenberg]

Who is likely to be on the bench tomorrow ?

Do we have any forward options apart from Drey Wright ?!

Think Murphy is meant to be back but doubt he’ll be fit enough for anything but a short stint off the bench.

[18Craig75]

Could Jack go 4-3-3 and spring a surprise on them??

[Aldo]

Could Jack go 4-3-3 and spring a surprise on them??

They tend to play with a front 3 and he might want to match up but I think we should concentrate on what’s best for us and I think 3 CH’s with Boyle and Doig wide has served us well! I think if we play a possible 5 in the middle we could find spaces in behind their MF.

Tbh I’ve not seen much of them and not sure if they play wingers etc but I’d like to see their fullbacks isolated and against Boyle and Doig.

Hope Kevin is playing today too because him dropping short for the ball will cause them problems and hopefully we will see him bringing others into the game (Boyle running in behind).

Going to be tough but very winnable.

Taking our chances when they come (especially early on) is a must for me!


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[Brightside]

Could Jack go 4-3-3 and spring a surprise on them??

Yes. Think it will be 433 451 defence.

[GreenCastle]

Dundee Utd haven’t beaten Hibs since December 2016.

[lucky]

Really looking forward to the game, it even feels like a semi day. Nerves kicking in, up early, weather not great just a shame we can’t all be at Hampden.

[KNBE]

Does anyone know what sort of time the team bus should arrive at Hampden?

[Souter96Mac]

Dundee Utd haven’t beaten Hibs since December 2016.

We've lost to them twice in the last 9 years. Hope to god that stat continues after today

[Onion]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/51144451

[jacomo]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/51144451


‘Not bad for a bloated panic signing’

:faf:

I want that on a T shirt.

[zitelli62]

Cmon my bonny boys get the job done.

[Billy Whizz]

Does anyone know what sort of time the team bus should arrive at Hampden?

A couple of hours before ko, I’d have thought

[Dashing Bob S]

Dundee Utd haven’t beaten Hibs since December 2016.

Would it be too Hibs to say that their terrible record against us is as bad a sign (law of averages) as St Johnstone’s good record against us (have our number)?

Asking for a friend.

[wookie70]

Was the last game they beat us the one Holt and Boyle were arguing about who took the pen before Boyle missed. I think our record is good against them as they are not anti-football. They tend to try and play and don't share bookings to break up attacks. Must be their Hibernian DNA

[K-Zazu]

Yes. Think it will be 433 451 defence.

Play 1 striker and we are out the cup.

[MWHIBBIES]

Play 1 striker and we are out the cup.

Why is that? Last time we beat Dundee United, we played 1 striker. It is very unlikely we will, though.

[wookie70]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/51144451

More tears shed reading that. It is amazing the deep set emotion that day still holds over me. What a story and hard to believe Holywood haven't been in touch about a Hibs movie.