Despite playing the better football in the first half we were a goal down at the break and had to start the second period without Law and Lasley. Any fears that the reshuffled team would struggle were soon put aside as the players took command of the game and scored four.
The game started with Cummins and Carswell on the bench as Higginbothan was handed a starting berth together with the returning Hutchinson. Our intention to take the game to the white shirted visitors was clear from the start and McFadden's delivery to Higdon in the fourth minute was the first of many attacks that looked likely to provide the opening goal.
The move was followed with twenty minutes of controlled passing as we dominated the play. The ball was passed with speed and the players movement matched. Surely a goal would come? With Hibs' first action in front of the Cooper end goal they scored. Wotherspoon sent in a fine cross from wide on our left and Taiwo met it with a fine header to beat Randolph. Lasley was replaced by Carswell shortly thereafter. McPake came close with a powerful header but it was clear that we were still in the hunt for goals. McFadden showed many of the skills that were so familiar a decade ago. Good control, and ability to twist and turn away from trouble and an ease of passing opponents that lifted the crowd brought back fond memories for home fans.
Law took a heavy knock and was replaced at the interval by Cummins. Ramsden moved to left back and Hateley moved into midfield. What followed was magical. From back to front every player gave their all. Determined pressing and defence was matched with tireless running and slick passing when we were in the opposition half.
Higdon's headed equaliser from McFadden's chipped cross followed a lung burting run from Ojamaa who set up the attack. Higdon's celebration was custom made for McPake and the pair needled each other all night long. McFadden gave us the lead when he skipped through the Hibs' defence before curling a beauty into the net from the edge of the box.
It got even better when Carswell crossed into the box in 67 minutes. Higginbotham produced a thunderous volley to bring the crowd to its feet. It was an excellent strike and it gave us a two goal lead.
There was no thought of defending our advantage. We pushed forward at every opportunity and with five minutes left McFadden rolled the ball to give Hateley a shot from the 'D'. It was goal bound but took a glance off McPake before the net bulged.
There were a few fierce physical battles to complement the silky passing but in the end we stood to cheer the team at the final whistle. Hutchinson and Mcfadden were announced as the men of the match but in truth everyone in claret and amber was a hero and those who were there will remember this terrific display for a long, long time.
We go into the international break with 50 points, in second place with a five point buffer over the pack. It's a good time to be a 'Well fan!