The Hibs players are dejected at their 4-2 defeat at Easter Road

John Hughes expressed disappointment that his Hibernian players did not produce a better performance in the 4-2 home defeat by Dundee United.

Patrick Cregg gave the Easter Road side a first-minute lead, but thereafter played second fiddle to in-form United.

"I was expecting a better performance. I felt the boys worked hard enough but in terms of quality on the ball it wasn't good enough," said Hughes.

"I'll keep battering away. I'll have to pick the boys up and get going again."

Hibs went into the match in fourth place in the Scottish Premier League, one place behind the Tannadice outfit and two points worse off.

But after the heavy defeat inflicted on them by two goals in each half from a United side that grew in confidence as the match progressed, Hibs' chances of finishing third have taken a hit.

"We got off to a great start but never really put the foot down on the gas after that," said Hughes, referring to midfielder Cregg's opener.

"Goals change games, obviously. We conceded the penalty and could have done better there. It was a quality second from young (Danny) Swanson but we could have closed him down quicker.

"We just never got to grips with their midfield. I'm really disappointed."

Jon Daly's penalty, from a crude Chris Hogg challenge, levelled the score and Swanson scored a sumptuous second.

Hibs striker Colin Nish first passed up a great chance to equalise on the stroke of half-time, then hit the post early in the second period.

"One or two things didn't fall for us," lamented the Easter Road boss.

"We had chances to get back into the game but it just wasn't to be our night. As the game went on, they dominated the game.

"Four goals wasn't a true reflection. We were going for it when they got their fourth."

After a bright start to his Hibs managerial career, Hughes is finding it harder to win matches as the season draws to a close.

But with European football for next season a distinct possibility, there is much to play for.

"The boys have been great for me this year. I'll have to pick them up and get going again," Hughes told BBC Scotland.

"If not, you bring other players to you club. I think a club the size of Hibs we should be up in third and fourth place every year."

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