Hibs and Dundee United have tended to produce thrilling games in recent times, and had already drawn 3-3 this season.

This was another absorbing contest from the start, with both sides creating, and missing, plenty of chances.

United forward Zac Sapsford had three good opportunities to score, the best of them a header just before Boyle’s shot was deflected in by Cleall-Harding.

Boyle was also culpable, heading on to the bar from just a few yards out when he should have made it 2-0.

The difference, as has been the case so many times in the Premiership this season, was set-pieces.

For all the talk of specialist coaches, blocking, and body positons, the fundamentals are still players who can swing a great delivery in for others to attack.

In Cadden, Hibs have one of the best in the league. A bit-part player through injury this term, his absence has been felt. As was shown by his influence as a second-half substitute here.

His left-footed, arrowed deliveries caused panic in the United box as Hibs profited to the fullest extent.

A special mention is needed for Suto, though, whose deft header was one of the best of the season and ensured Hibs won the game to stay in touch with the top four.

United winger Trapanovski was outstanding and, on another night, his wonderful arcing deliveries to the back post from corners would have been the story.

Twice he cleared the Hibs defence at the front post to set up Graham, who slammed in as Jack Iredale tried to boot the ball away, and then Watters.

But unfortunately for him the story of United’s season has been missed opportunities and self-inflicted wounds.

They have given up 18 points from winning positions in the Premiership this season – more than any other side.

Their panic at the back as Cadden rained balls into their box proved their undoing, and now with Falkirk purring their top-six hopes seem a long shot even with nine games to go until the split.