Hibernian Academy got their 2025/26 CAS Elite League Cup campaign off to a perfect start with a 2-0 victory over St Mirren, despite being without the services of Bermuda international Logan Jimenez.
Jimenez, a key figure in the Hibs youth setup, was forced to miss the opening clash through sickness, watching from the sidelines as his teammates navigated a tense encounter.
For much of the match, St Mirren proved a stubborn nut to crack, but the deadlock was finally broken in the 77th minute. Josh McDonald provided the moment of quality the hosts had been searching for, cutting inside to find the far corner with a fine curling strike.
As the visitors pushed for a late equalizer, Hibs put the result beyond doubt with the final action of the match. Deep into stoppage time, Dean Cleland was found in the area and lashed a powerful finish into the net to clinch the points.
The result provides a strong foundation for the Academy side as they look to progress in the competition, with Jimenez expected to return to the squad once he recovers from illness.
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