Gray Praised Hibs’ Character Against FK Partizan

Hibernian FC Head Coach David Gray heaped praise on the players’ character as they progressed into the UEFA Conference League Play-Off Round.

His players had to go through extra-time, once again, and this time over-came a tough, talented FK Partizan side.

When speaking after an utterly enthralling European tie at Easter Road, David Gray described his immediate thoughts.

“I’m delighted for everyone involved. The game will take a long time to analyse and go over.

“I thought we started the game really well, our shape was good, and we had the best chances in the first half. We knew they’d come after us, but then after a couple of mistakes we found ourselves 2-0 down.

“Half-time came at a good time for us. We got the players in and calmed them down a bit. The question I asked them was all about mentality and the character of the group. A lot of people spoke about the importance of the first goal of the game, but to then find ourselves 2-0 down takes huge character. Credit to the players to deliver the performance they did. The effort from every player was there for everyone to see, which was fantastic.

“Again, we were pegged back in the very last second of 90 minutes, thinking we’d won the tie. My job is to improve the players and there were moments we could’ve managed the game better, but the character was tested again, and we came back strong in the second half.

“The most important thing now is we’re in the next round; it’s an incredible achievement to beat a team like that. It takes some doing.”

Kieron Bowie again stole the headlines – scoring arguably the goal of the season – and putting in a mammoth performance up top.

“If you take the goal out of it and analyse his performance, he was fantastic. He was everything you want from him, he led the line really strongly, held the ball up, and had unbelievable work ethic. The effort every player put into the game was incredible.

“His goal was fitting to win the tie in 90 minutes, but again the players were tested again.

“Even towards the end of the game, Kieron was running of fumes, but he was so important the way he was playing. It’s a really good group, who are delighted with what they’ve done.”

Watch the full interview below on Hibs TV!