Deflated and rather despondent, there was a shift in Gray’s manner after the action at McDiarmid Park.
How long ago must the post-match celebrations in Gent following their goalless draw in the first-leg feel for him?
He would be forgiven for admitting being confused by his team, because it’s certainly how many other onlookers are feeling.
Last weekend at Dens Park, they played some glorious football. They started the second half of the derby well on top, and looked good value for an equaliser before Jack Iredale’s mind-boggling red card.
But at times on Sunday, they were like a bunch of strangers searching for someone to step up, take control and grab… something, anything.
Instead, two of Gray’s supposed leaders let him down.
Although only signed in the summer, Jason Kerr, the boyhood Hibee – who captained St Johnstone to their 2021 cup double – inexplicably allowed Josh Fowler a simple tap-in from close range before skipper Martin Boyle – who was hooked at half-time – committed a clumsy foul in the box for a clear-cut penalty.
Hibs have now failed to win any of their past 18 league games when conceding first.
“The manner in which we lost the two goals today summed up our first-half performance,” Gray told BBC Sport Scotland.
“We were nowhere near aggressive enough to stop the ball coming into the box. We were very passive, gambling and guessing in the box rather than staying goal side.
“Then, we give away a needless penalty which you just can’t do.
“You can’t give two goals away like that and not come under criticism for it and I know that’s my responsibility.”