The short version
- Hibernian suffered a disjointed loss to St Johnstone, highlighting defensive frailties and a lack of clear tactical direction under head coach David Gray.
- The defeat follows a pattern of poor results when conceding first, with the team failing to win any of their last eighteen league matches after going behind.
- Squad depth issues are exacerbating performance problems, with key defenders sidelined and recent departures leaving Gray with limited options in central defense.
Hibernian’s recent trajectory has shifted sharply from near-historic achievement to a state of tactical confusion and on-field capitulation. Just ten days prior to their latest setback, the club stood on the precipice of making history by reaching the league phase of the Conference League, a milestone never before achieved by a Hibs side. That potential glory evaporated in a complete collapse against Gent, marking a second consecutive year where the team fell at the final hurdle of European qualification.
The momentum loss continued into domestic competition. After a brief respite with a victory over Dundee, Hibernian returned to Easter Road for the season’s first Edinburgh derby. A win was essential to salvage pride and standing, but Hearts secured the victory instead. The subsequent trip to Perth offered a chance to rebuild morale against St Johnstone, yet the performance there was described as lifeless and rudderless, leaving supporters frustrated and questioning the team’s direction.
Head coach David Gray appeared deflated following the match at McDiarmid Park, acknowledging significant responsibility for the manner of the defeat. He criticized his team’s defensive approach, noting they were passive and prone to gambling rather than maintaining proper positioning. The loss was compounded by two specific errors: a simple tap-in allowed by new signing Jason Kerr and a clumsy penalty conceded by captain Martin Boyle, who was substituted at halftime.
Statistical trends underscore the severity of Hibernian’s struggles. The team has now gone eighteen league games without a win after conceding the first goal. This vulnerability is particularly acute given the recent defensive injuries and departures. Grant Hanley left the field with a hip issue, adding to a depleted backline that already saw Jordan Obita sidelined with a calf problem. Marko Ivezic remains unavailable following his deadline-day signing, leaving Gray with scarce options.
The departure of Warren O’Hora to Leicester City has further weakened the defensive unit. O’Hora had been a commanding presence and frequently wore the armband in Joe Newell’s absence. His exit, coming one year after the loss of star striker Kieron Bowie, represents a significant blow to squad stability. Gray has expressed confidence that he retains the support of the group and believes the situation can turn quickly, but the on-field evidence suggests otherwise.
Tactical ambiguity appears to be a central issue. Former Scotland defender Charlie Mulgrew observed that Hibernian lacks a clear style or plan, contrasting them with St Johnstone, whose intentions were evident. Mulgrew noted that Gray’s frequent changes, including midfield alterations and halftime substitutions, have not clarified the team’s approach. Instead of executing a defined strategy, even imperfectly, the side seems to be searching for an identity.
Offensive efforts have also failed to materialize effectively. Nathan Lowe, on loan from Stoke City, scored his first Scottish Premiership goal but has otherwise struggled to make an impact since joining. Gray continues to rely on long balls to the twenty-year-old striker, a tactic that rarely yields sustained possession or clear chances. This reliance on individual moments rather than structured build-up play highlights the broader disconnect in Gray’s game plan.
The immediate future offers little respite for Hibernian. The team faces Ross County in the League Cup quarter-finals, followed by back-to-back fixtures that will test their resilience and depth. With defensive injuries mounting and tactical questions unanswered, Gray must address both the structural weaknesses and the psychological toll of recent failures. The gap between expectation and performance has widened, leaving the club in a precarious position as the season progresses.
Supporter frustration is palpable, with fans pointing fingers at both players and management. The contrast between the glorious football displayed against Dundee and the disjointed effort against St Johnstone illustrates the inconsistency plaguing the squad. Gray’s assertion that he holds the group’s trust will be tested in the coming weeks, as the need for coherent direction and defensive solidity becomes increasingly urgent.
As Hibernian navigates this crisis, the focus remains on whether Gray can instill a clear identity and stabilize the defense. The combination of European disappointment, derby defeat, and league struggles has created a perfect storm. Without significant improvement in organization and execution, the pressure on the coaching staff will only intensify, potentially impacting future transfer decisions and squad morale.
Sources behind this briefing
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- BBC Sport↗'Gambling & guessing' - Gray faces up to Hibs crisis
