Martin O’Neill has paid Hibs a compliment by declaring his Celtic side’s win at Easter Road their best of the season.

A 2-1 defeat was inflicted on new Hibees boss Marink Reedijk by the Premiership champions. It followed on from recent losses under his stewardship to Dundee United and Falkirk but performance levels in parts of this display improved, despite eventually suffering a loss.

Owen Elding put Hibs in front before Jason Kerr’s own goal and Camilo Duran’s effort before half-time sealed three Celtic points. A week on from thrashing Hearts 7-1 and after defeat midweek in the Europa League against Celta Vigo, Parkhead boss says several factors made the game his favourite win of the season. Storm Boelo impacted proceedings and Celtic’s overall performance underwhelmed some, but for all Hibs are bottom of the top flight pile, Reedijk’s counterpart insists that doesn’t matter when sides come to Leith.

O’Neill said: “The performance wasn’t that fantastic, the blustery conditions probably didn’t help. We didn’t play great, but to me, I thought it was our best win of the season, considering the circumstances.

“Coming here it doesn’t matter where Hibs are placed in the league, it’s always been difficult. And then to come from a goal behind to win the game, to see the three points through, I thought it was our best one of the season, seriously.

“We were still on the bus when Hibs scored. It’s a very, very good free kick from their viewpoint, really clever, but we were asleep for it. Then we score pretty much immediately, and then Duran comes up with a wonder goal to win the game.

“I didn’t think at that stage that was going to be the winning goal, but I’m seriously pleased with the win, considering everything.”

Celtic goalkeeper Sam Johnstone was along similar lines after the game was broadcast by Sky Sports. He said to the broadcaster: "Yeah, a great win. Tough place to come. Really tough conditions, That's a massive win for us. They gave it their all, and we had to defend really well. Difficult, but for everyone it's the same.

“When the ball goes in the air, you don't know where it's going to go, There were a few sloppy passes. It was tough but the lads dug in. It's always good to play. I love playing, and the goal of the group is always competition, to push each other every day in training and support each other."