Hibs’ Development side lost 2-1 to Newcastle United Under 23s at the club’s training centre yesterday.

Luke Charman gave the visitors a 13th minute lead before trialist Jonny Smith (pictured) equalised after beating the offside trap and running through on goal.

He had the option to square the ball to Oli Shaw but instead he fired a low shot into the bottom corner of the net.

The 21-year-old began his career at Wrexham, spending time in their youth set-up then after one appearance for the North Wales side, he moved to Bristol City for an undisclosed compensation package.

He has also spent time out on loan at AFC Fylde and Cheltenham Town.

Liverpool born Smith spent last season on loan at Tranmere Rovers from Bristol city making 35 appearances and scoring four goals as the Birkenhead club won promotion to League One.

Hibs’ keeper Paddy Martin produced several fine saves to keep the scores level at the break.

The Geordies regained the lead in the 51st minute when Lewis Cass netted from close range and three minutes later Smith was replaced by another trialist, Will Donkin, a Taiwanese international who previously played for Crystal Palace after spending five years with Chelsea.

Donkin had little impact on the game as Jamie Gullan and Sean Mackie tormented the Newcastle defence but were unable to set up an equaliser.

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John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.