Hibernian manager John Hughes admits his side have their work cut out against a clever counter-attacking team after their European return ended in a 3-0 defeat by Maribor.
Hughes employed a 4-5-1 formation with main goal threats Derek Riordan and Anthony Stokes on the bench but the holding tactics failed to keep out the slick Slovenians in the first leg of the Europa League third qualifying round. And the Hibs boss knows any more sloppy play would make an uphill struggle mission impossible at Easter Road next Thursday.
Hughes said: "It will be very difficult in the second leg, but you never know what can happen."
He added: "The second and third goals came about through bad ball retention,
"But they are a very good side, very sharp. They know what they are doing.
"After the third goal they were dangerous on the counter-attack."
The former Hibs skipper has urged his players to pass the ball with more urgency next Thursday.
"Maribor played the ball quicker than us," Hughes said.
"They are a good team, very sharp and quick. We played a competitive game but they outpaced us.
"We have to pass with purpose, not just for the sake of passing it. We need to pass a bit better and a bit quicker."
Source: PA
