'I have no doubt...' - Ex-refs chief re-analyses Martin Boyle controversy in Hibernian vs Motherwell

Oscar Priestman only had himself to blame as Martin Boyle won and converted a penalty during Hibernian's clash with Motherwell.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that referee Steven McLean had no choice but to point to the spot.

Lukas Fadinger netted from the penalty spot for the Steelmen in the first half on Sunday, 3 August, only for Hibs to have their own chance from 12 yards in the 56th minute.

Boyle latched onto a poor backpass from Dylan Williams before beating Priestmann to the ball inside the penalty area, only to be taken down.

Chris Sutton wasn't convinced by the fall, but both Kris Boyd and James McFadden backed the foul being awarded, as Hibs went on to lose 2-1.

Now, Hackett has cleared up the controversy after the dramatic scenes at Easter Road, with the referee being supporters in his actions.

'It might seem harsh, but Steven McLean got it right'

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett praised the decision, stating that it was simply a "careless challenge" from Motherwell's No.12.

"Now, here, I think it's clearer for the referee. The defender is out of position, and he's leaned into his opponent," he said.

"Then his arm and elbow come away from his body, so I've determined that's a push. That's a careless challenge.

"I have no doubt that that penalty kick, although again, it might seem a harsh call, it's the correct call."

Ultimately, the decision ended up having very little impact on the result, with Ibrahim Said netting the winner for Motherwell in the 85th minute.

What are Hibernian's chances of relegation in 2026-27?

It has certainly been a disappointing start to 2026-27 for Hibs, especially after finishing 5th in the Scottish Premiership last term.

There is no reason to panic after just one game, though, with one major bookmaker pricing Hibernian to finish bottom of the league at 40/1.

Falkirk and Kilmarnock are the two favourites to seal that position in the table, though Hibs are just 7/4 to finish in the bottom six teams.

The only noteable exit this summer has been Chris Cadden, who joined Aberdeen, so David Gray should have no excuses for a poor campaign.