JON ROBERTSON was elated as he scored Alloa’s winner against Hamilton, conceding he has had a “torrid time” out injured.

Robertson slotted into midfield after Miko Virtanen was subbed off after two head knocks in the first half.

With the game set to be ending a draw, Robertson popped up at the back post to poke in the winner to seal three points for Alloa.

The midfielder has had a rough year, being out of the game with a knee problem since last April but made his return to the team against Falkirk in January.

Speaking to Advertiser Sport after the match, Robertson reflected on a tough year and looks forward to contributing more in the future.

He said: “Personally for me, it’s about getting into that team and playing as many minutes as I can. I’ve had a torrid time at it this season but glad to come in and make an impact.

“I’ve been unfortunate, I picked up my injury at the end of last season and then a couple weeks ago I had my first start in about nine months.

“It was a knee thing, got that sorted but every time I got close to coming back in, I would get a knock and it’s been a mentally tough year for me personally.

“Today, I got my opportunity and it’s just about trying to take it when I get it. I work hard and try my best to be ready when needed.”

Robertson’s winner sealed three points for Alloa against Hamilton, while Kurtis Roberts added the first goal near the hour mark.

The second half was a very tight affair, both teams battling it out to score a winner, in the end it was Alloa who broke through.

“I could feel it in the game,” Robertson added. “It was like a basketball game especially at the start of the second half, there wasn’t much in it.

“Both teams looked good on the counter and on the attack but I was delighted to pop up with a goal.

“I felt I got stronger as the game went on, it was a fast paced game and they had plenty of pace to bring off the bench and they did.

“I’m absolutely delighted to contribute to the game in the biggest possible way today.”

Alloa’s win over Hamilton means they cut the gap to just seven points between themselves and Accies at the time of writing.

Hamilton will have played Stirling Albion yesterday evening, while Alloa’s game in hand comes against Kelty Hearts next month.

All of a sudden, second place doesn’t look too out of reach for Andy Graham’s men, with Robertson insisting they have to now view it as a target.

“The gaffer is very positive and he’s tried to get us looking up,” Robertson added. “Hamilton won’t be easy to catch but a big thing for us was bringing them in a bit by beating them today.

“I think that has to be our target and moving away from the teams behind you all the same.

“That will be the target and hopefully finish in those playoff positions. We’ll certainly give them a run for their money and try get into that play-off spot.”