Haddington Athletic 2 – 1 Hibernian U20
International Club Friendly | July 15, 2026

Match Overview

Lowland League side Haddington Athletic pulled off a notable pre-season upset on home soil, defeating the Hibernian U20 development squad 2‑1 at Millfield Park. The match, part of a series of summer friendlies for both sides, saw the hosts deliver a determined performance that mixed defensive solidity with clinical counter‑attacking play.

First‑Half Spark

The opening 45 minutes belonged largely to Hibernian’s young academy prospects, who controlled possession and worked several half‑chances through wide combinations. However, it was Haddington who struck first against the run of play in the 34th minute. A long ball over the top was chased down by striker Callum McGregor (not the Celtic one, but the local Haddington forward), who shrugged off a defender and slotted low past the onrushing Hibs goalkeeper.

The home side’s goal seemed to unsettle the visitors, and just before the break, McGregor turned provider, slipping a pass inside to Ross Falconer, whose first‑time finish from 15 yards doubled Haddington’s advantage. Hibernian responded with a late flurry but could not reduce the deficit before halftime.

Second‑Half Response and Late Drama

Hibernian U20 came out with renewed urgency after the interval. Manager Grant Murray’s changes injected fresh legs, and the Edinburgh side pulled one back in the 63rd minute through substitute Cole Carrick, who rifled home from the edge of the box after a neat cut‑back from the left flank.

The final 25 minutes were tense, with Hibernian pushing for an equaliser. Haddington’s goalkeeper Jordan Pettigrew made three fine saves, including a spectacular diving stop to deny a curling effort destined for the top corner. At the other end, the home side nearly added a third on the break, but the shot was cleared off the line.

Standout Players

• Callum McGregor (Haddington): A goal and an assist, plus tireless running that kept the Hibs defence honest.
• Jordan Pettigrew (Haddington): The keeper’s late saves preserved the win and earned him man‑of‑the‑match honours.
• Cole Carrick (Hibernian U20): The brightest spark for the visitors, scoring a fine consolation goal.

What It Means

For Haddington Athletic, this result builds confidence ahead of their Lowland League campaign, showing they can compete with professional academy sides. For Hibernian U20, the friendly served as a valuable work‑out, highlighting areas for improvement in defensive transitions. Both managers will have taken plenty of notes ahead of the new season.

The fixture was the only meeting between the two sides in pre‑season, and Haddington fans left Millfield Park with a smile after seeing their team hold firm against Scottish Premiership youth talent.