A Tale of Loyalty and Legacy at Easter Road
In an era where football loyalty often takes a backseat to lucrative transfers and short-term contracts, Hibernian fans have been blessed with two remarkable exceptions: Lewis Stevenson and Paul Hanlon. As the curtain falls on their illustrious careers at Easter Road, Jeetbuzz reflects on their unparalleled contributions to the club, their resilience through turbulent times, and the indelible mark they leave behind.
The Unbreakable Bond: Stevenson and Hanlon’s Hibs Journey
Lewis Stevenson: The Epitome of Perseverance
When Lewis Stevenson made his debut in September 2005 under Tony Mowbray, few could have predicted the legacy he would forge. A 17-year-old left-back thrown into a League Cup tie against Ayr United, Stevenson’s journey began humbly. Yet, over 19 seasons, he became synonymous with Hibernian’s identity—embodying the club’s motto, “Persevere.”
His crowning moment? The 2007 League Cup final, where a teenage Stevenson was named Man of the Match in Hibs’ 5-1 thrashing of Kilmarnock. As he modestly told BBC Scotland: “I wasn’t even meant to be playing today… I think it was just my age that I got man of the match.”
Stevenson’s early triumph set the tone for a career of quiet brilliance
Paul Hanlon: The Silent Leader
While Stevenson’s story often takes center stage, Hanlon’s 565 appearances deserve equal acclaim. A rock in defense, Hanlon’s leadership during Hibs’ darkest hours—including their 2014 relegation—proved invaluable. His partnership with Stevenson wasn’t just on the pitch; their Hanlon Stevenson Foundation has impacted countless lives in Edinburgh and beyond.
The Pinnacle: Ending 114 Years of Hurt
May 21, 2016, remains etched in Hibs folklore. In stoppage time of the Scottish Cup final, captain David Gray’s header sealed a historic victory over Rangers, ending a 114-year drought. For Stevenson and Hanlon—survivors of past heartbreaks—this was redemption.
“I never cried when my daughter was born,” Stevenson admitted post-match, “but I was crying out there on the pitch.”
The moment Hibs’ curse was broken—with Stevenson and Hanlon at the heart of it
By the Numbers: A Modern-Day Miracle
Lewis Stevenson’s Hibs Career in Stats
- 600 appearances (club record for league games: 477)
- Only Hibs player to win both League Cup and Scottish Cup
- Played under 20 managers—from Tony Mowbray to Nick Montgomery
- Scotland cap in 2018 under Alex McLeish
Paul Hanlon’s Impact
- 565 games—a testament to consistency in defense
- Charity work through the Hanlon Stevenson Foundation
- Bridge between eras, mentoring young talents like Josh Doig
The Future: Hibs Without Their Icons
As Jeetbuzz analyzes Hibs’ next chapter, challenges loom. New sporting director Malky Mackay must navigate financial pressures and managerial instability. Yet, replacing Stevenson and Hanlon’s intangible qualities—their understanding of the club’s soul—is impossible.
Final Whistle: A Legacy Beyond Football
Stevenson and Hanlon exit as rare breeds—players who lived the club’s highs and lows. Their charity work ensures their impact transcends football. As Stevenson prepares for his first post-Hibs dressing-room karaoke, one thing is certain: Easter Road won’t see their like again soon.
“They leave a legacy money can’t buy,” says Jeetbuzz Scottish football expert, “and a blueprint for what loyalty truly means.”
Their greatest victory? Giving back to the fans who adored them
#HibsLegends #ThankYouLewisAndPaul
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