Queen of the South out to make amends after '˜dodgy' Hibs win

Dominique Malonga celebrates his late winner back in November. Picture: SNS

The Dumfries club succumbed to a 1-0 defeat in Leith in December thanks to a contentious Dominique Malonga goal in the 90th minute.

The goal prompted the fury of then-manager James Fowler, who claimed referee Brian Colvin had favoured Hibs during a drop-ball situation which led to the goal.

Skelton admits that result and perceived injustice will be on their minds when Queens take to the field on Sunday to face a Hibs side level on points with Falkirk and aiming to redress a goal difference deficit of three.

“We owe them one,” said Skelton. “They beat us 1-0 in Edinburgh under dodgy circumstances.

“We were very disappointed to lose up there in that manner so we want to go up there, make amends and win the game.

“If we can do that then it gives us an opportunity to finish fifth, which would be great and something we can hopefully take in to the summer.”

Skelton admits his own future is shrouded in uncertainty as the Queens board weigh up their next move following the dismissal of Fowler last week.

The 35-year-old, who was brought to the club as assistant manager by Fowler, guided the Palmerston Park team to a 3-1 win against Livingston in his first match in charge on Saturday.

“I don’t really know my own situation,” Skelton said. “I know there have been a few personal things for the board, so I have only spoken to them very  briefly.

“I’m in the same boat as the players and, hopefully in the next week or so, we can get some clarity.

“It is difficult, and it’s a challenging decision for the board too, but we all need to clear our heads and look to the future.”

Queens missed out on the play-offs this season but are safe from any threat of relegation.