When Hibernian hosted Aberdeen at Easter Road in late November, the stage was set for a clash that would leave an indelible mark on both teams' seasons. Aberdeen, riding high in second place, faced a struggling Hibs side rooted to the bottom of the Scottish Premiership. What unfolded was a 96-minute rollercoaster that would redefine their campaigns.

The Build-Up

Aberdeen, under new manager Jimmy Thelin, had transformed into a formidable force, dropping only five points in their first 12 league games. Their form had fans dreaming of challenging the Old Firm. In stark contrast, Hibs, led by rookie coach David Gray, were in disarray, languishing at the bottom with an unbalanced squad.

The Match

Gray's switch to a back three initially paid off as Joe Newell put Hibs ahead. However, second-half goals from Jamie McGrath and Nicky Devlin swung the game in Aberdeen's favor. The drama peaked in stoppage time with three goals in six minutes. Nicky Cadden's stunning free-kick leveled the score, only for Ester Sokler to restore Aberdeen's lead with a spectacular overhead kick. But the final twist came in the 96th minute when Rocky Bushiri scrambled in his first goal for Hibs, securing a dramatic 3-3 draw.

The Aftermath

For Hibs, this match was a turning point. Embarking on a remarkable run, they lost only twice in their next 20 games, climbing to third in the table. Aberdeen, however, spiraled into a slump, failing to win a league game for over 11 weeks. The psychological impact of that late equalizer was profound, derailing their season.

Key Figures

• Rocky Bushiri: His late goal not only salvaged a point but also reignited Hibs' season and likely saved Gray's job.
• Nicky Cadden: His free-kick showcased his set-piece prowess and was crucial in the comeback.
• Ester Sokler: His overhead kick was a moment of brilliance, but ultimately overshadowed by the late drama.

Conclusion

This six-goal thriller was more than just a match; it was a season-defining moment for both Hibernian and Aberdeen. For Hibs, it was the spark that ignited their resurgence. For Aberdeen, it was the beginning of a painful decline. Such is the beauty of football, where 96 minutes can change everything.