Preview: Hibernian vs. Ross County - prediction, team news, lineups

Hibernian are undefeated in their previous four matches in all competitions, and are currently making a late push to place pressure on the top four.

Match preview

Hibernian managed to close the gap to fourth place to just nine points in midweek after a 1-1 draw against Hearts, extending their current unbeaten run to four games.

While there is a long way to go the Hibees are pushing those above them in a bid to take fourth place by the end of the season, but consistency will be crucial in making that happen.

Hibernian were unable to defeat Ross County when they met earlier in the season when they drew 2-2 in a game that left them frustrated after throwing away a two-goal lead.

However, only two teams in the league have conceded more goals in home fixtures than Nick Montgomery's side, which they will be wary of heading into this one.

Hibernian have also lost more games at Easter Road than in away matches, but with a victory potentially being enough to see them climb above Dundee in the league table, there is plenty of incentive for the squad.

The visitors currently sit four points adrift of safety, and with games running out, there is mounting pressure on the team to start picking up results to try and avoid a relegation battle.

While the Staggies have a seven-point gap between themselves and Livingston they will still be looking to avoid the relegation playoff match if possible.

Ross County have managed to secure four points in their previous two matches, showcasing the fighting spirit that is within the club at the moment.

Even though the Staggies took a point against St Mirren in midweek it was a result that will have left fans frustrated as the Buddies scored an 86th-minute equaliser.

Despite that, there should have been a growth in confidence after the past two performances and that now needs to be taken into the weekend as Ross County look for only the second away win of the campaign.

Hibernian Scottish Premiership form:

D

L

L

D

W

D

Hibernian form (all competitions):

L

L

W

D

W

D

Ross County Scottish Premiership form:

L

L

L

L

W

D

Team News

Montgomery named an unchanged starting XI in midweek, and he could end up doing the same thing for a third consecutive game this weekend to keep the consistency going.

Luke Amos was unavailable to feature on the bench against Hearts due to a knock, which could keep him out of the squad again, but the Hibees did bring Dylan Levitt after a brief illness.

The visitors have a long list of injuries as Yan Dhanda, Will Nightingale, Connor Randall, Dylan Smith, Ross Callachan and Scott Allardice are all unexpected to be involved.

However, Jack Baldwin could be able to make his return this weekend as he has been back training lately, although it is unknown whether or not he will be ready to start.

Hibernian possible starting lineup:

Marshall; Miller, Fish, Bushiri, Obita; Moriah-Welsh, Newell; Boyle, Marcondes, Maolida; Vente

Ross County possible starting lineup:

Wickens; Ayina, Leak, Efete; Jenks, Loturi, Sheaf, Reid; Brophy, Murray, White

We say: Hibernian 2-0 Ross County

Ross County might desperately need points at this stage in the season, Saturday could prove to be a difficult fixture to make that happen.

Hibernian have been consistent lately, and they should have enough quality to keep that run going by taking another three points here.

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