

Under the familiar blazing sun, GAS faced Hibs United on the artificial turf at GESS. The conditions were hot and demanding, but the surface allowed for a faster, cleaner game.
Hibs arrived in good spirits and with a solid squad with three subs, unbeaten in four matches and boasting an impressive goal difference of 15:3 - probably the leagues strongest team. GAS, however, fielded an deeper lineup, reinforced with our new players Simon and Victor, recently joined the GAS spirit, and a healthy number of substitutes.
The game started at a high tempo. In only the second minute, Khan broke through on goal and was brought down in the box - a challenge that looked close to a penalty, but the referee waved play on. Minutes later, Hibs punished a lapse in marking as their captain found too much space outside the area and fired a precise shot past Aravind to make it 1–0.
Despite the setback, GAS responded well, maintaining shape and confidence. The match remained evenly balanced through the first quarter.
The equalizer came midway through the second quarter: Khan’s effort was parried by the goalkeeper, and Mathis reacted quickest to slot home the rebound for 1–1. The game continued to be physical and intense, with several robust challenges going uncalled as the referee opted for a “let them play” approach.
Hibs relied heavily on long diagonal balls to their wingers and striker, testing GAS’s defense repeatedly. The center-backs rose to the challenge brilliantly — dominating in the air, winning nearly every header, and keeping the back line organized throughout. Meanwhile, GAS rotated frequently, using the deep bench to maintain fresh legs under the punishing sun.
The Hibs goalkeeper had a standout performance, denying several good GAS chances - around ten in total - while the opposition created fewer but remained dangerous. Persistence finally paid off in the 77th minute: Oscar initiated a move down the right, Markus delivered a sharp cross, and Hugo finished confidently to put GAS ahead 2–1.
Just five minutes later, Markus got on the scoresheet himself after an excellent solo run, whose quick footwork opened up a tired Hibs defense. Markus’ finish made it 3–1 and seemed to seal the game.
Unfortunately, true to tradition, GAS ensured a nervy ending. Hibs pulled one back late to make it 3–2, setting up another tense final five minutes. The defense held firm this time, clearing multiple crosses and managing the clock well until the final whistle confirmed a hard-earned victory.
It was a thrilling and physical match played in good spirit, with moments of banter and tension but mutual respect at the end. Considering Hibs’ strong record and individual quality, this was an excellent result for GAS - one that cements their position among the league’s top contenders.