Stevenson: Stern words after loss can save season

HIBERNIAN’S Lewis Stevenson believes a frank dressing-room honesty session following the St Johnstone defeat earlier this month can save their season.

The Saints thumped Hibs 3-1 at Easter Road and Stevenson thinks stern words spoken after the game have made a difference to his side’s fortunes.

“We had a chat after the St Johnstone game at home where a few of the boys spoke and said their piece,” said the midfielder. “We knew our performance wasn’t good enough and, since then, we’ve been a different side. It’s been a weight off our chest. A lot of people were keeping things in but, once they said what they thought, we have been able to relax.”

“I didn’t say much in the discussion, but it was a good chat and what we needed. Hopefully it will stand us in good stead for the rest of the season.

“I think there have been a few matches this season where we’ve looked nervous and a bit stressed out but, in the last couple of games, it’s been a lot different.”

Having shown promise earlier in the season, Hibernian have dropped down to sixth place and Stevenson is well aware of how important tonight’s home match with Kilmarnock is.

“This is the main part of the season, this is where it matters,” he said. “We have given ourselves a good platform but it will mean nothing if we fall away now. We’ve got to roll our sleeves up and treat every game like a cup final.”