Jack Ross has hailed the influence of Martin Boyle in Hibs’ 2-0 win over Aberdeen as the Hibees took a big step towards third spot.
The Australian international scored twice to secure a victory for Hibs that moves them five points clear in third. Boyle has hit form in recent matches, scoring four goals with an assist over the last three fixtures.
Boyle’s a man in form. (Photo by Craig Foy/SNS Group via Getty Images)
Ross reckons the arrival of Chris Cadden on the right flank has allowed Boyle to have influence further up the pitch: “I’ve spoken a lot in recent weeks about the importance of results at this stage of the season and we got that today but equally we got the performance that merited it and a big performance in a big game from us so it’s really pleasing.
“Recent form is four wins from five which is good from us. I think we look strong again as a group. We had a lot of individual players dip at the same time five or six weeks ago but i think they are all looking strong again and sharp and bright which is a good sign for us.
“He’s looked back to his best, he is another one who had a bit of a dip and some personal issues when we left him out a few weeks ago. I think he benefitted from that rest mentally and physically.
Ross is pleased with Boyle. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
“He has settled a lot now and bringing in Chris Cadden has helped a lot because it has allowed us to free him up further up the pitch. He is probably a bit frustrated he did not get that hat-trick but his contribution to the game was excellent.”
One concern from this encounter was similar injuries to Alex Gogic and Jackson Irvine, both suffering shoulder knocks in this match. Gogic soldiered on with his but Irvine had to be replaced after 67 minutes.
Ross is hopeful it’s nothing too serious for either of them: “Jackson and Alex both suffered similar injuries to their shoulder, both impact injuries. There is no dislocation, they’re a bit sore and stiff and we’ll see how they recovery.”
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