Christian Doidge maintained Hibernian’s 100% start as they beat Dundee United to win their opening three top-flight games for the first time in 46 years.
The Welshman struck from a narrow angle to beat United goalkeeper Benjamin Siegrist at his near post in one of the game’s few chances.
Peter Pawlett flashed a volley high and wide in United’s best opening.
And the hosts, still without Lawrence Shankland, sustained their first defeat since winning promotion.
Doidge’s presence as a focal point was exactly what United were missing, with the striker providing the game’s one bit of inspiration in the 65th minute.
He got the break of the ball after Josh Doig’s attempt was blocked and took a touch away from the chasing pack of defenders before unleashing a fierce drive high past Siegrist. However, replays suggested Doig may have been slightly offside.
United lacked Doidge’s composure, exemplified by an Ian Harkes effort that trickled wide and Pawlett’s shot that sailed out.
The game’s other main talking point was an early aerial collision between Jamie Robson and Paul McGinn, with the former booked and unable to continue.
Table Of Contents
Man of the match – Christian Doidge
What did we learn?
Neither side hit the heights of their weekend performances with the turnover of possession startling at times.
The hosts had promising opportunities to test Marciano from free-kicks and struggled to get past the wall.
Shankland’s return will be welcome for the Tangerines, while Hibs’ confidence grows ever more with their front men on form and their defence giving little away.
What did they say?
Dundee United manager Micky Mellon told Sky Sports: “Frustrating. It was a game of very few chances.
“It’s a step up for us. At times tonight we looked a decent side. We were well in a game that was very, very tight.”
Hibernian head coach Jack Ross told Sky Sports: “Really, really pleased. We found a way to win the game.
“Christian Doidge is such a brilliant asset for me. He’s so unselfish in his play.”
What’s next?
Dundee United visit Ross County on Saturday at 15:00 BST, with Hibs going for four wins in a row at home to Motherwell later that day at 17:30.