It was a home debut to remember for recent Dunfermline acquisition Ben Richards-Everton.
The young defender was forced to take on additional responsibilities in the heart of the Pars’ rearguard after the early dismissal of full-back Jason Talbot for serious foul play.
His mature performance helped to largely nullify the threat of Hibs’ frontmen Jason Cummings and Dominique Malonga as the Fifers almost managed to snatch a draw against their Edinburgh visitors.
“It was a good test for the boys,” said the 23-year-old, who spent most of last season with Airdrie while on loan from parent club Partick Thistle.
“We played well in the second half after we had fallen two goals behind, had some good possession, created chances, hit the post then pulled one back late on.”
The main talking point was the straight red card shown to Talbot by referee Nick Walsh after only 16 minutes.
The ex-Livingston defender was adjudged to have tackled Malonga in a dangerous manner.
Hibs began to dominate after the sending off, taking the lead shortly afterwards with a superb strike from Scott Allan then doubling their advantage early in the second half through Lewis Stevenson.
Faissal El Bahktaoui hit the post as Dunfermline rallied, and the Moroccan striker pulled a goal back for the home side in the closing stages.
“There’s no doubt the red card spoiled the game, especially for the fans, but you have to give credit to the players for the way they responded,” said Richards-Everton.