JOHN McGinn hopes lessons learned from Hibs’ League Cup final defeat will stand them in good stead when they return to Hampden this weekend for the William Hill Scottish Cup final. Alan Stubbs’ side had been strong favourites to win their first trophy since 2007 when they took on Ross County in March but ended up on the wrong side of a 2-1 scoreline .That was a rare setback for McGinn whose other happier memories at the national stadium include being part of the St Mirren team that won the 2013 League Cup and his Scotland debut in March. He will return on Saturday to face Rangers hoping to add another one.
“On the whole my Hampden experiences have been positive,” he said. “I’ve only lost once albeit it was a crushing one. It was a really disappointing day but when I look back I’ve got fond memories, whether it’s a semi-final or a final or playing for your country at the national stadium. It’s a great place to go and play your football.
“The League Cup final could work positively for us because we know what it feels like to be on the losing side. It’s something we’re eager not to repeat. You don’t want to be going to a final and picking up the silver medal, you don’t want to be walking up first. You want to be the last up to lift the trophy and remember something for the rest of your life.
“Over the piece [against County] we were the better side but in a cup final you have to keep the mistakes to a minimum and the performances high. But that day we only played alright, not well, especially against a good side. We need to handle the occasion better, start brighter and hopefully play to our strengths.”
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