Scott Taggart scents another thriller in Glasgow

The 18-year-old was part of the club's Under-19 side which covered itself in glory by lifting both the Cup and league title last season and naturally he'd love to repeat that experience.

One of the younger members of that all-conquering squad – they also defeated Hearts to take the East of Scotland Shield – Taggart admitted this season has proved to be an entirely different proposition with a new-look team enjoying something of a roller-coaster ride. "It's been a bit more difficult. Last season we went all the way to February without being beaten, we always seemed to be winning and to be the favourites going into every game," he said. "We had a group who had been together for a few years and it all came together last season. I think people just expect the Under-19 side to just carry on the same each year but it isn't the same as building a first-team squad as each team has to break up as the boys become too old to play at this level.

"A lot of younger boys have come in and it's been a bit up and down results-wise. There's really only Fergus Bell, who is out with a broken foot, Callum Booth, who has gone on loan to Arbroath, Scott Smith, Matty Welch and myself left from last season."

Nevertheless, an 8-0 win over Inverness Clach and a 2-1 victory against Falkirk have propelled Hibs into the last eight with, Taggart admitted, the hope they can go all the way once more.

He said: "It was a brilliant night at Hampden, the memories are still very fresh.

"For me it has been the highlight of my career so far and to go back to Hampden again this season would be brilliant.

"But, of course, we still have to get there, we can't start dreaming of it yet. We can't look any further than tomorrow and, while I don't know too much about Livingston, I've heard they've been winning matches 12 and 14 nil. And, in any case, they wouldn't be in the Cup at this stage if they aren't a pretty good team."

Tomorrow's match takes place at East Mains, kick-off 1.00pm.