Victory over the Bens moved the Farmer’s Boys up to fifth in the table as they bid to escape the Central District First Division and Whiteford believes the quality he has at his disposal gives the Brig O’Lea side a fighting chance of moving up the leagues.

He said: “We had a couple of players missing for the game on Saturday but despite that we came out and produced a great performance that was a credit to the boys.

“The effort they put in was great and the fact there were a few players missing shows just how strong a side we have.

“I was delighted with the level of performance we put on. We played some fantastic football and showed what we are capable of in the final third.

“It was a great team effort from the lads. The subs who came on made a difference, the guys from the start were great and the effort from everyone involved was brilliant.” Neilston welcome relegation scrappers Lanark to the Brig O’Lea on Saturday but Whiteford will be taking nothing for granted against Brian Johnston’s side.

A win could move Neilston up to third place but he stressed he is only taking it one game at a time.

Whiteford said: “Lanark will definitely be a tricky test. They won at the weekend and will be looking to continue what has been a good run.

“It is a home game so we know that we want to keep our home run going, it is a record we are proud of so hopefully we can see it continue against them. Either way we will be up for the tie and will do our all to be prepared come Saturday.”