We can finish in the top four, says Hibs hero Boyle
Martin Boyle last night set his sights of a top four finish for Hibs after helping the Leith club grab temporary possession of second place.
The winger scored the first in the 4-0 defeat of Hamilton Accies and had a hand in two of the other goals in a man-of-the-match turn at the Fountain of Youth Stadium.
“The league table looks pretty good and we’re striving to go as far as we can. But we know how difficult it’ll be,” he said.
“We are in a good place and long may it continue.
“Some people will say it’s unrealistic to split the Old Firm because we know the strength of the Old Firm and Aberdeen.
“But if we can continue the way we’re going, hopefully we can stay in the top four.
“That was a great performance, it was dominant and we took our chances.
“Hamilton is a difficult place to come but we got on the front foot and really took it to them.
“Everyone’s pitching in with goals, even Paul (Mcginn) who’s flying! It was great for me to get back on the scoresheet.”
The Australian international had particular praise for Kevin Nisbet.
“There has been talk of Kevin getting into the Scotland squad and if he keeps playing like that I can see it, 100%,” he said.
“I thought he should have been called up before.
“He has scored a lot of goals and is playing well. Maybe with what was on the line for Scotland last time they would have been taking a chance on him.
“But to score the goals he has, I don’t see why he can’t get a call-up. He’s definitely chapping at the door.
“Hopefully he can continue to score goals for Hibs.
“He caused them all sorts of problems today. He drops in, draws fouls and he gets assists too. He’s been fantastic since he signed.”
Hibs manager Jack Ross, who spoke of the need for his side to be as relentless in their work in the second half of the season as they have up until now, described the performance of Steven Bradley as a big bonus.
The 18-year-old, who was making his Premiership debut, had a shot turned on to the crossbar and generally caught the eye.
“Steven has got a really good chance,” said Ross.
“He is very comfortable in possession.
“Playing on that side of the pitch on his left foot suits him.
“He has got an opportunity through circumstance. He made a couple of League Cup appearances but it was great for him to make his league debut.
“He’s one we’re really excited about; he’s got the potential to be really good.”