The former Scotland Under-21 star was to blame for the Hibees opener after he was robbed by Hibs hitman Leigh Griffiths.

But Lennon says he is to blame – not his No.1.

The defeat was only Saints' second at home this season in five top-tier outings and means the Paisley men drop to sixth spot.

Lennon said: "It was my responsibility – not Craig Samson's fault.

"He knows he has got to play the ball a little earlier and that is the manner we want the boys to play in.

"It's the type of football we want to play and, as I have said, we will make mistakes in attempting to do so.

"Samson has kept us in many a game and we are not going to blame him."

Despite the fact the impressive Paul McGowan netted a double for Saints, it was not enough to save them from defeat.

The Buddies boss also seemed to suggest that Samson's place for tomorrow night's Communities Cup quarter-final clash with Ayr United at St Mirren Park is not in jeopardy.

Lennon said: "Craig has been a big player for us and has grasped that No.1 jersey.

"My goalkeeping coach Paul Mathers must take a lot of credit for that and I am sure Craig will continue to perform consistently.

"Every one of my players makes mistakes and every Hibs player makes a mistake, but the problem is they are not highlighted."