Shaun Maloney insists he knows exactly what is needed to make Hibs improvements

Shaun Maloney claims he knows precisely what is needed to make Hibernian a “lot, lot better” after two consecutive defeats by Hearts ruined their season’s ambitions.

Maloney was far more satisfied with his side’s Hampden display than their performance at Tynecastle seven days earlier, but the outcome was similar.

After a 3-1 Edinburgh derby defeat consigned them to the bottom six, 10-man Hibs lost 2-1 in the Scottish Cup semi-finals to end any hopes of a European place and a third consecutive cup final.

Hibs showed fight after going behind to excellent strikes from Ellis Simms and Stephen Kingsley by immediately hitting back through Chris Cadden and then pushing Hearts all the way, even after Joe Newell’s second yellow card in the 65th minute.

Only a magnificent stop from Craig Gordon to keep out a Ryan Porteous header, which the goalkeeper pushed on to the post, prevented Hibs from forcing extra time, but the defeat spelled the end of an underwhelming first chapter in Maloney’s management career.

Maloney has been without a full team of players to injury, illness and suspension at times, but supporters expected far more after he opened his Hibs career with two consecutive wins over Aberdeen and Dundee United.

Hibs have only recorded one league victory in 2022 and went into the split 19 points behind Hearts.

Maloney said: “I know exactly where the team are, where the squad are. I know exactly what we need to compete with Hearts

“What you saw on Saturday was, in my opinion, a more dominant performance. What Hearts have, and you have got to give them credit, is a very strong squad, they have a lot of experience at this level and at higher levels. Unfortunately you saw Craig produce an amazing save. That’s what happens with