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Hibernian defeat St Mirren with Elding debut goal

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Hibernian bounced back from their Edinburgh derby disappointment with a comfortable 2-0 victory over St Mirren at Easter Road. Owen Elding marked his full Hibernian debut with a goal in the 42nd minute, glancing in Dan Barlaser's cross. The 19-year-old striker, who arrived on a permanent deal from Sligo Rovers last month, showed the energy and youthful exuberance that manager David Gray had been looking for.

Fellow January recruit Ante Suto added another goal just two minutes after coming on as a substitute, finishing from close range after Nicky Cadden's cross was parried by Shamal George. The hosts made a lively start but should have tested the goalkeeper earlier with several promising openings. Felix Passlack's volley off the post in the 50th minute was a key moment that could have extended Hibs' lead.

The victory moves David Gray's side to within two points of fourth-place Motherwell in the Premiership, although the Steelmen have two games in hand. St Mirren remain three points clear of 11th-place Kilmarnock but have now only mustered one victory in their last 10 league outings. Manager Stephen Robinson acknowledged the need for improvement while Gray emphasized focusing on their own performances as the season reaches its critical stage.