The last time these sides met St Mirren came away comfortable 3-0 winners in Paisley, a result which set the tone for Hibernian’s campaign but failed to become the start of another impressive season for Stephen Robinson’s men.
Hibs look to convert performances into points
Far from looking second best, Hibs have often been dominant side, let down only by their inexplicable inability to maintain a lead. On only three occasions this season have their opponents had more of the ball, with two of those coming in games against the Old Firm. It is not a case of sterile dominance either, the growing chemistry between Junior Hoilett and Jordan Obita down the left wing is become another important attacking tool for David Gray. Rather, the problem lies in the final third of both ends.
Following another late equaliser at Easter Road, the manager lamented the ‘inconsistencies’ of penalties awarded by VAR. However, the penalty decisions aside, it fails to account for the regular shipment of late goals. Nine let in during the final 15 minutes accounts for over half of the goals Hibs have conceded in the SPFL this season.
Gray has not had much luck further up the park either, their ten goals scored this season the joint worst with Ross County. With four league goals between them, Dylan Vente, Kieron Bowie, Dwight Gayle and Mykola Kukhareych have all failed to kick on up front, with Vente being sent out on loan despite costing a reported £700k last summer.
Saints seek stability on the pitch
It has not been plain sailing since the Saints achieved their second top six finish in a row, with problems mounting both on and off the pitch. The side has been unable to generate momentum following their wins, with victories against Hibs and Hearts both being followed by four games without one. A pattern looking set to repeat itself as their 3-1 victory over St Johnston preceded a goalless draw with Ross County.
Greg Kiltie’s saved penalty was an opportunity missed but the side remain in the top half of the table despite winning only a quarter of their games. St Mirren’s problems however, extend beyond the confines of the ground as off-field turbulence continues to disrupt the club. Shaun Rooney’s exit from the club after an assault charge in October was followed by the termination of Kevin van Veen’s loan after appearing in court, charged with domestic abuse. Now, Jaden Brown could be the latest to leave as he awaits sentencing for multiple driving charges.
It is difficult to imagine this turbulence won’t have impacted the players’ performances but Robinson will need to steady the ship and his side face a difficult trip to Easter Road.
Clash of bright sparks
It is not quite the story of an immovable object meeting an unstoppable force but the upcoming clash between Marvin Ekpiteta and Toyosi Olusanya is a mouthwatering prospect for both sets of fans.
Despite being rooted at the bottom of the table, the Hibs defence is the sixth best in the league and Ekpiteta has been pivotal in recent weeks.Statistically, the defender ranks among the best centre-backs in the league in winning duels both in the air and on the ground. There is no doubt he has looked increasingly assured since a difficult start to the season. What is in doubt, is whether his recent performances can carry his teammates to only their second victory of the season.
Meanwhile Olusanya continues to terrorise defences with his harried pressing and physicality. With four goals in eight league fixtures, the former Middlesborough player has almost matched the 6 in 35 of last season. Despite a shot accuracy of only 27%, the forward continues to demand the ball and chase down defenders. Perfectly suited the Saints game which aims to take advantage of disorganised play.
His dominant performance against Rangers’ Robin Propper saw the Dutch defender subbed off and not start a game since. Ekpiteta will know he has his work cut out as fans look set to be treated to one of the contests of
the weekend.