Hibs started the season as Championship favourites and won it with something to spare with the title sewn up by early April. Three seasons in the Championship were enough for one of Scotland’s major teams as they dominated the league. While Jason Cummings and John McGinn were gaining the plaudits and international recognition for their attacking performances, it was Hibs’ mean defence that was keeping them at the top of the table. In 18 away fixtures they only conceded 10 goals. They also fought bravely to retain the Scottish Cup, but were narrowly defeated in the semi-final by Aberdeen.
The key to escaping the clutches of the Championship appears to be a fast start. Hibs provided it with five consecutive wins to open their season. Only Queen of the South could keep pace as Falkirk’s challenge was quickly compromised. However, a shock defeat from Ayr United was followed by three consecutive draws as Hibs discovered they could not be complacent. At the midpoint of the season Dundee United were leading by two points, but four consecutive wins established Hibs’ lead at the top and United’s challenge stalled. It was not all plain sailing as only one win in six fixtures showed, but none of their opposition were able to take advantage as they dropped points too. Hibs had problems with several injuries in central defence, but Neil Lennon went back to his old club, Celtic, and acquired the services of Nigerian international, Efe Ambrose. Hibs never looked back and finished the remaining 10 games of the season undefeated. Overall, Hibs were clearly the best team in the Championship and they are optimistic they will make a strong impression in the Premiership upon their return.
