Owen Elding’s goal after just 13 seconds helped Hibernian ease to victory against Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership and strengthen their push for European football.
Hibs are now within three points of fourth-place Motherwell, who occupy the final guaranteed European spot, while Kilmarnock’s revival lasted only two games.
Striker Elding put the hosts in front before Kilmarnock had even touched the ball and it was 2-0 before the break.
Elding’s superb through ball found the on-rushing Jordan Obita, who squared for fellow wing-back Felix Passlack to tap in.
Despite Hibs’ dominance, Kilmarnock thought they had pulled one back through new Scotland cap Findlay Curtis.
However, it was ruled out for offside against Brad Lyons, who cut the ball back to Curtis, as the Killie skipper was behind goalkeeper Raphael Sallinger.
The Hibs number one was the second-last defender as Obita was off the pitch. Simple enough for the VAR to clear up.
Kilmarnock had the better of the second half but failed to truly test Sallinger, before conceding a third with almost the last touch as substitutes Martin Boyle and Ante Suto combined, with the latter knocking in from close range.
Given St Mirren’s win over Aberdeen, second-bottom Kilmarnock are now three points adrift of 10th place. However, they are still 12 clear of Livingston, who play Hearts on Sunday.