Neil Lennon wanted more despite dramatic Europa League win

Posted Friday, July 27, 2018 by PA

Neil Lennon was proud after seeing Hibernian produce a dramatic turnaround to beat Asteras Tripolis 3-2 in the Europa League, but admitted it could have been more.

Florian Kamberi scored in injury time to complete a remarkable second-half display that saw Hibs come from two goals down to win and give themselves an advantage heading into the second leg in Greece.

Things had looked bleak after Georgios Kyriakopoulos scored twice, but Efe Ambrose, David Gray and Kamberi scored to spark wild celebrations at Easter Road.

“It was a good performance,” Lennon said. “I’m really proud of the team, they showed tremendous character because they could easily have given up the ghost, but we should have won the game by more.

FT| #HIBS 3-2 AST pic.twitter.com/xeAiG5cC01
— Hibernian FC (@HibsOfficial) July 26, 2018

“We missed some easy chances but to come from two goals down, and the manner we conceded the goals was bitterly disappointing but it’s tremendous character.

“They have a bit about them, this team. The tie is back in the balance and could still go either way.

“I would have taken 2-2 under the circumstances, but to be 3-2 up psychologically it has given us a lift but we are taking nothing for granted.

“I know what it’s like away in Europe, it’s tough but it was a tremendous effort from the players.”

Despite the win, Lennon was frustrated after the final whistle after learning that he will not be able to return to the touchline in Greece next week.

He had been due to complete a four-match European ban from two years ago on Thursday night, but has been handed an extended suspension and a fine by UEFA for allegedly signalling for a substitution while in the stands.

It came with his side already well ahead in the first leg against Runavik two weeks ago, but it means Lennon will have to watch on as his players try to secure a place in the third round of qualifying.

“It’s ridiculous and scandalous, I’m disgusted,” he said. “They said I made a substitute signal, but we were 5-0 up and it had no bearing on the result.