No half measures in race for third

DAVID GRAY said the prospect of finishing third in the Premiership is a "big driving force" for Hibernian as they bid to move a step closer to European group-stage football next season with victory over Dundee United today.

- Anthony Brown

Just three points separate Hibs, fourth-placed Aberdeen and fifth-placed United in one of the most competitive battles in recent memory for the "best-of-the-rest" slot behind the traditional big two of Celtic and Rangers.

Third place will carry the reward of guaranteed European group-stage football - a Europa League play-off spot with a consolation parachute into the Conference League - if Celtic defeat Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup final.

"It's huge in terms of you want to try to become the best of the rest," said Hibs boss Gray when asked about the difference between finishing third and fifth.