World News – GB – Hibernian snatches Scrappy victory over League One Forfar

Skipper David Gray’s late header saved Hibernian’s blushes with a 1-0 Betfred Cup victory over part-time Forfar

Hibs had an unfamiliar look on them for this trip to face Ligue 1 opposition, but they would have hoped for a more comfortable night’s work at Angus

Without a full squad due to a mix of international duty and injuries, manager Jack Ross was forced to tinker with a squad with a mix of youngsters, marginal players and former stalwarts

And it was Gray, reduced to a small role this season, who won it for them in the 87th minute

Jamie Gullan had the only real opportunity on Easter Road in the first half as they battled determined hosts Stevie Mallan found space on the right side of the box, but Forfar defender, Ross Meechan, was brave with a block as Gullan pulled the trigger from 12 yards

Unfortunately for the home side, the opening period was mostly marked by a serious injury suffered by defender Darren Whyte, who required five minutes of treatment on the pitch before being carried away on a stretcher

Hibs boss Ross brought in Martin Boyle and Kevin Nisbet after an hour and just nine minutes later Nisbet headed a Gullan cross, but the Premiership’s top scorer saw his effort crashing at the crossing of the post and the crossbar before Forfar erased the danger

The tie stretched late as both sides pressed for a winner and Hibs finally got the goal they needed with just three minutes left Mallan threw a free kick from the right and Gray took the lead on delivery to clinch a third consecutive Group B victory for the capital

Hibernien FC, Forfar Athletic FC, Jack Ross, David Gray, Scottish Premiership