Martin Boyle confident young Hibs strikers can deliver goals this season

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, August 2, 2026

Martin Boyle praised Hibernian’s young forwards Owen Elding and Nathan Lowe for their promising performances in the team’s 4-1 win over Malisheva, which secured advancement in the Conference League qualifiers. His confidence in their potential highlights Hibernian’s strong attacking options as they prepare for their next match against Shkendija and continue their campaign this season.

Martin Boyle expressed confidence in the potential of Hibernian’s young attacking players as the team looks to build on a strong start to the season. The experienced forward, 33, highlighted the promise shown by 20-year-olds Owen Elding and Nathan Lowe, who both scored in Thursday’s 4-1 victory over Malisheva in the Conference League second qualifying round.

The win helped Hibs overturn the first-leg deficit and set up a next-round tie against Shkendija of North Macedonia. Boyle also contributed with a well-worked solo goal, which he modestly said he could not fully recall but was pleased to have helped the team advance.

Boyle praised Elding and Lowe for their early-season impact and growing confidence. He noted that despite some missed chances, particularly from Lowe during the away leg, their involvement in key positions was encouraging. “I’d be more concerned if he wasn’t getting into those scoring spots,” Boyle said of Lowe, who is currently on loan from Stoke City.

Lowe has publicly set a personal target of scoring 20 goals this season, a challenge Boyle encouraged with good-natured optimism. “That’s just 19 to go now, no pressure,” Boyle remarked. He described Lowe as enthusiastic and unpredictable in a positive sense, believing the trio of forwards can develop strong on-field chemistry.

Regarding Elding, Boyle highlighted the youngster’s natural talent and technical ability, especially his left foot. While Elding missed a chance towards the end of the Malisheva fixture, Boyle called it part of the learning process and expects him to capitalize on future opportunities, starting with Hibernian's upcoming league match against Motherwell.

Boyle emphasized the importance of the striking partnership in Hibernian’s attacking strategy, noting that having a reliable target man like Lowe in the box has already helped the team’s dynamics. He anticipates more goals from himself and the younger forwards as the season progresses.

The comments underline Hibernian’s blend of experienced and emerging talent as they compete on multiple fronts this season, with the coaching staff and players optimistic about their offensive prospects.

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