Hibs inches away from Sutton shock

However, player-coach Rich Kay said he could not fault his side’s efforts after holding the title favourites for 70 minutes.

“I’m gutted for the lads,” said Kay. “We had a gameplan, and to be honest, first half, we played around them and continually hit them on the break.

“Their goalie has pulled off a top- class save and I’ve hit the crossbar to take the lead.

“As the second half went on they were huffing and puffing, throwing on forward after forward.

“When they scored I’m sure they thought they had won the league.”

In front of a healthy crowd, Hibs started the stronger and Calum Yeates was denied by a fine fingertip save, while Kay’s header came back off the bar.

Sutton were not without their chances and hit the post with a fierce drive as the game ebbed and flowed.

The hosts upped the tempo after the break, but Hibs proved resolute and it needed an excellent finish from Ryan Simmonds to break the deadlock in the 70th minute.

Ten minutes later, Sutton made sure of the points when a right-wing free-kick evaded everyone and nestled in the far corner of the net.

“The second was a goalkeeping mistake but apart from the goals, our keeper has had one save to make,” added Kay.

“We were well worth a point and the performance should give us confidence to go to any team and get a result.”

Hibs entertain Henley Forest tomorrow (2pm).