As Hibernian produced a strong second-half showing to dismiss Aberdeen, it was no wonder head coach David Gray called it a “huge win”.
Not only did it back up a significant derby victory against league leaders Hearts, but it was done amid the absence of a raft of key players.
It also moved Gray’s side four points behind third-place Rangers – albeit having played a game more – as they look to finish in the top three in consecutive campaigns.
They may be 10 points off their city rivals, but given the 17-game unbeaten run Hibs managed last season, it is not outlandish to suggest they could be in the mix at the top in 2026.
“I’m delighted for the players, it was a huge win after everything that went into the derby,” Gray told BBC Scotland.
“We spoke before the game about a fast start and building on the momentum – I thought [first half] it was a bit flat to be honest. Understandably so. Having to try and go again and the emotional side of it.
“Second half, I thought we were very good and deserved to win the game. A clean sheet is always important.
“Now when you look at back-to-back wins, you need to win your home games but it’s difficult to do that against two really good sides.”
It was the first time Hibs have won consecutive league games since early November and only the third time overall this season.
Clearly consistency has to improve if they want to move up from fifth place.
There is a feeling Hibs have not made the most of their good play when on top in games this season, characterised by a slew of draws in the opening months.
But fundamentally when you analyse Hibs’ squad, they have the raw ingredients to kick on.
Only Hearts have scored more goals in the league than Hibs and only Celtic have a higher expected goals rating. Gray’s team are also second for shots on target, showing they create plenty.
In terms of firepower, Hibs have lots of it. Kieron Bowie has seven league goals, Jamie McGrath six and Martin Boyle five.
Despite missing Bowie through illness and losing Boyle to injury during the first half, they still found a way past Aberdeen.
Record signing Thibault Klidje netted his third league goal of the campaign, as did Junior Hoilett, who came off the bench.
In midfield, Josh Mulligan has been one of the Premiership’s standout performers and he was involved in both goals against Aberdeen, while their defence is a settled back three.
One of their chief creators, Nicky Cadden, was also out on Tuesday and Miguel Chaiwa, Jordan Obita and Rocky Bushiri are at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Despite those issues Hibs have come through two tough home games with maximum points.
This squad showed last season they can go on a long run, which plays in their favour.
Only time will tell if they can repeat the feat, but to come off the emotional high of a derby win and record another victory could be key for momentum.
It must now be backed up by another win against struggling Kilmarnock on Saturday.
“It was pivotal Hibs went and backed up the performance against Hearts,” former Hibernian midfielder Scott Allan said on Sportscene.
“Aberdeen was always going to be a tricky game. They manage to come away with the three points and the second-half performance was really good.
“Are they in the title race? I don’t think David Gray will be saying that in the changing room. I think they’ll strengthen in January in a few positions.
“And if they can go on a run like they did last season then they could be in the mix come the end of the season.”
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