Logan Jimenez and his Hibernian Under-19 team-mates endured a difficult start to their CAS Elite Youth League campaign, suffering a 4-1 defeat to Kilmarnock at the HTC training complex.
Hibernian, coached by Darren McGregor, were forced to contend with several injuries and the absence of players out on loan, leaving the squad to rely on a number of promising youngsters aged just 14 and 15 against a clinical Kilmarnock side led by Kris Doolan.
The visitors made the most of their experience in the opening half, striking twice in quick succession. Remo Margiotta opened the scoring before experienced winger Scott Tiffoney doubled Kilmarnock's advantage to give the visitors a commanding 2-0 lead at the interval.
Hibernian responded positively after the restart, with Callum MacDonald pulling a goal back to spark hopes of a comeback.
However, Kilmarnock quickly regained control. Tiffoney grabbed his second goal of the afternoon before Cole Coughlin added a fourth to seal an emphatic victory for the visitors.
Despite the disappointing result, the match provided valuable experience for Jimenez and Hibernian's youthful squad as they continue their development against some of Scotland's strongest academy sides.
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