Caley Thistle manager John Hughes reckons tonight’s Scottish Cup opponents Hibernian could be an even more dangerous opponent following the League Cup final defeat against Ross County on Sunday.
Alan Stubbs’ side have fallen 17 points adrift of Championship leaders Rangers, with Sunday’s defeat meaning the Scottish Cup, which they have not won in 114 years, is the only chance of silverware this season.
Inverness are the competition holders, and are aiming to set-up a semi-final tie against Dundee United by winning tonight’s quarter-final replay, which follows a 1-1 draw at Easter Road earlier in the month.
Former Hibs manager Hughes said: “I really feel the motivation will be there for Hibs to go and put this right. Everyone is having a go. Hibs lost a cup final, but it is always an achievement to get to a cup final. They’ve been banging on the door for a few years now – and one of these times that door will open and they’ll get silverware.
“It’s maybe wrong to say in defeat, but I see what Hibs did, in getting to a League Cup final, as a fantastic achievement. Without sounding condescending, they can be proud.
“Hopefully it will not be in the Scottish Cup this year and we can take care of business. If we’re not at our best, there is every chance Hibs can take our scalp. If we are, I’m confident we can be in the semi-final against Dundee United.”
Hughes holds fond memories of last season’s Scottish Cup final victory against Falkirk, and has challenged his players to show how much retaining the trophy would mean to them.
He added: “I honestly feel we have an affinity with the Scottish Cup, being the holders. I’ve seen that in the ties we’ve had and in the desire and determination to hang in there and keep a grasp on that trophy.”
