Cup boost as Hibs tie up David Crawford

Hibs were handed a boost today ahead of tomorrow's SFA Youth Cup semi-final with Rangers at Ibrox as Easter Road kid David Crawford signed his first professional contract.

The 18-year-old, named the Clydesdale Bank's Under-19 League "Rising Star" in January, said: "I've never played at Ibrox before and it will be a really special occasion. Hopefully we can put on a good performance and win - it would be a dream to experience that in the same week that I've signed my first pro contract with Hibs."

Under-19s coach James McDonaugh believes the wide player has earned the promotion into the first-team ranks, saying: "I'm delighted for him and hopefully he will grab his opportunity with both hands.

"He has worked hard for his chance and now he has to continue to push hard to make an impact at the next level."

Meanwhile, McDonaugh has challenged his Easter Road kids to cause an upset against Rangers, admitting the Glasgow youngsters, aiming for their fifth successive Hampden final and top of the SPL Under-19 League, go into the clash as red hot favourites.

However, while conceding his players will be seen as the underdogs, McDonaugh said he'd been delighted with the progress his young side - 11 of his squad can play at this level again next season - over the course of the past few months.

He said: "I think there's only been a couple of occasions all season when I've been really disappointed. Tomorrow will be an exciting day, going to one of the biggest stadiums in the country and being able to show they can handle it."

He said: "They are challenging for the title but anything can happen. All the pressure is on the Rangers boys, we have nothing to lose."