Stokes insists Hibs can still finish third

ANTHONY Stokes has urged Hibernian not to give up on third place in the Clydesdale Bank Premier League – because they have already proven how suddenly a slump can occur.

Despite occupying the "best of the rest" spot behind the Old Firm for most of the season, Hibs' hopes of finishing there have all but evaporated after a run of only two wins in their last ten SPL games.

The collapse has let Dundee United leapfrog them and open up an eight-point lead, but topscorer Stokes is refusing to give up hope of another twist in the race before the end of the season.

"Dundee United have the lead and are in good form at the minute but we've seen this year that any team can go on a slump, so six games can change things," Stokes told his club's official website, www.hibernianfc.co.uk.

"Because of that, we simply can't give up – we've seen how our form went as well, fortunes can change very quickly so we'll keep working and you just don't know what will happen so you have to do that."

Summer signing Stokes, whose 20 goals have helped carry Hibs for much of the season, knows victory at Hamilton on Saturday is crucial to maintaining his side's bid for third spot.

"Hamilton are a very well organised side who know and play to their own strengths," said the 21-year-old, who netted twice in a 5-1 win the last time the sides met.

The Ireland international has also set himself the target of finishing his debut season at Easter Road with at least 25 goals.