Europa League Qualifier: NK Maribor 3-0 Hibernian - Hibs Left With Mountain To Climb

Hibernian were dealt a blow in their Europa league match as they went down 3-0 to Slovenian champions NK Maribor.

Josip Ilicic bagged himself a brace to inspire the Slovenians, with Hibs now needing a huge performance in the next leg if they are to go through.

Maribor almost took the lead 16 minutes in, but Hibs goalkeeper Graham made a good save to keep the opposition at bay.

That didn’t last long though as Ilicic bagged his first goal on the half hour mark, after some good work in the box led to the midfielder powering in an effort, which hit the crossbar on its way in.

Liam Miller almost scored before half time with a long drive but his effort was knocked away by the opposing keeper.

Hibs also failed to convert a goal line scramble just before half time as they went in to the break a goal down.

Shortly in to the second half Ilicic got his second goal of the game after winning possession near the Hibernian goal, he delicately lifted the ball over a stranded Stack’s head.

Tavares then got on the scoresheet as he curled a left footed shot beyond the reach of the Hibernian goalkeeper Stack, minutes after being denied by the Irish stopper.

Hibernian were unable to grab an away goal despite putting the pressure on before the final whistle.

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