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Christian Doidge strikes to extend Hibernian’s perfect start

Hibernian v Newcastle United – Pre-Season Friendly – Easter Road
(Image credit: Jane Barlow)

Christian Doidge netted the only goal at Tannadice to extend leaders Hibernian’s 100 per cent record in the Scottish Premiership.

Doidge pounced on a loose ball to strike in the 65th minute and make it three wins from three for Jack Ross and his team.

Dundee United had chances to level but Micky Mellon’s side suffered their first defeat of the season.

After a dramatic day off the pitch when Celtic defender Boli Bolingoli’s flying visit to Spain threatened to force a pause of the season, there was little to report in the first 45 minutes.

The highlight of the half was Kevin Nisbet’s nutmeg on Mark Connolly near the bye-line. Even then the United defender hauled the Hibs striker down just outside the box and the free-kick came to nothing.

Connolly cleared Boyle’s low cross from the goalmouth as Nisbet looked to force home and Hibs soon took the lead after a cross from Gogic. Doig was first to it and the loose ball broke kindly for Doidge to fire high inside the near post.

Doig looked like he might have been inches offside when Nisbet flicked Gogic’s cross on, but any infringement would have been impossible to verify without video assistance.

United fought back. Calum Butcher’s deflected shot went close, Connolly headed wide from a corner and the hosts almost netted a memorable equaliser after Louis Appere chested down for Peter Pawlett, but the midfielder volleyed wide.