Albion Rovers ace aims to strike up partnership to aid Lowland League title bid

Niyah Joseph knows it will be a tough task to win promotion back to the SPFL this season, but the Albion Rovers forward is hoping to form a prolific partnership with Joe Bevan.

The Cliftonhill side’s Viaplay Cup campaign – which ended on Saturday – has delayed their big kick-off in the Lowland League, but they begin their pursuit of success in the fifth tier this coming Saturday at home to Hearts B.

A number of sides will be able to outspend cash-strapped Rovers but Joseph hopes a forward combination with Bevan will pay off for them as they seek a return to League Two, following last season’s relegation.

Joseph, whose side are three games behind, said: “It will be tough. But the goal is to get out of the league and we know there will be a lot of teams with the same view as us.

“There will be more teams than just us looking to get out of it so it will be very competitive, with so many good squads in the league.

“But I’m sure we’ll do well this season.

“Stats-wise Joe did well from January to the end of the season last season and that’s something I spoke to the manager about, as something we are looking to exploit this season.

“I think we can work well together. I’ve got a good relationship with him already so hopefully that can provide plenty of entertainment, goals and assists for the team that can get us up to the top of the league.”

Joseph arrived from East Stirlingshire, having previously worked with Rovers boss Sandy Clark and No.2 George Paterson there last season.

The 23-year-old, who netted in the Viaplay Cup defeat to Kilmarnock last week, added: “I’ve worked with Sandy and George a couple of times so I know what I’m going to get and they know what they’re going to get from me.

“I’m looking forward to continuing