Delighted Shaun Maloney hailed Hibs for sticking to the new game plan as they delivered the rookie boss a debut win.
The new Leith gaffer has only had two training sessions with his players since being named Jack Ross’ successor on Monday.
And it showed as they lost their way for a period after a bright start against Aberdeen.
But they were back on message after the break and claimed a win which fires them back above the Dons into the top six thanks to Ryan Porteous’ 64th-minute winner.
Now Maloney hopes the victory will also go some way to soothing the pain Sunday’s defeat to Celtic in the Premier Sports Cup final.
The former Celtic and Scotland star said: “I’m very proud of the players because they played the way they did after two sessions, showing bravery.
“The second half, the way they defended in the last 15 minutes was incredible, considering what had happened in the final.
“They were incredible, really, when you consider that they put in at Hampden.
“That was part of the reason why the game went the way it did in the second half. We couldn’t get as much pressure on the ball up the park.
“The first half, the way they tried to play, there was always going to be mistakes after two sessions.
“The fact they kept trying, that’s huge credit to them. The staff have worked really hard – but the players have been really, really open minded.
“I didn’t really feel pressure. I just felt like it was part of the process. You prepare for the game, you’re constantly working.
“I’m really happy, the chairman is delighted. Maybe tomorrow I’ll feel that the pressure is off!”
Aberdeen were missing skipper Scott Brown due to illness and boss Stephen Glass admitted his side lacked the drive needed to get a result.
Glass said: “Any time you lose is disappointing.
“We looked like we lacked a bit of energy, which was the biggest disappointment.
“We should have been fresh off the back of three wins.
“The game was really scrappy, with not a huge amount of chances
“I don’t think Hibs really deserved to win but they got the goal from the set piece. Neither team did enough in open play.”
