Bermudian international Logan Jimenez found the net late on, but it was not enough to prevent Hibernian Development Squad slipping to a narrow 2-1 defeat against Annan Athletic in the KDM Evolution Trophy.
First-half strikes from Charlie Maxwell and Corey O’Donnell handed the hosts a commanding cushion at Galabank, leaving the young Hibees with too much ground to make up despite a determined second-half push.
Following a balanced opening spell, Annan drew first blood on 23 minutes. A teasing corner caused indecision in the Hibernian penalty area, allowing Maxwell to react quickest and dispatch an emphatic first-time volley into the far corner.
The hosts doubled their lead in the 37th minute through a relentless, direct surge. Maxwell forced his way through a cluster of green shirts before the ball fell kindly to O’Donnell, who stabbed a low finish beneath Hibs goalkeeper Mallon from close range.
Hibs responded with greater attacking urgency after the break and were rewarded with six minutes remaining.
MacDonald floated a deep corner towards the back post, where Buckley rose highest to direct a firm header towards goal. The effort deflected decisively off the well-positioned Jimenez and into the net to set up a tense finish, but Annan held firm through the closing minutes to secure their victory.
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