The Barrhead side had to dig deep at a rain soaked Dunterlie as a Gary Smith inspired turnaround sealed a 2-1 win over Cumnock.

The hosts had found themselves a goal down with little over half an hour left on the clock but, despite the conditions, managed to grind out a well-earned victory.

McEwan beamed: “Saturday was a hard, hard game but I believe it is testament to the boys that they managed to come away with a win considering the start we had.

“They are probably sick of hearing me — but I am running out of words to describe just how good they have been since I have came in.

“Even though they went a goal down they performed fantastically and it is a massive three points.

“If we had been beaten then we start to look over our shoulder — instead we are looking up and looking at who we can catch next.” Arthurlie continue their cup this weekend as they travel to Millburn Park to take on Hugh Hamill’s Vale of Leven in the West of Scotland Cup.

Good league form, combined with an extended run in the Scottish Cup, has seen morale being lifted in recent weeks.

Arthurlie have been drawn at home to Kirkintilloch Rob Roy in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup — and having reached last year’s final with Glenafton, the now Arthurlie boss insists the final is a realistic ambition for his new side.

He added: “No disrespect to Glenafton but if they can reach the Scottish Cup final then why can’t Arthurlie.

“This is a fantastic club with a fantastic history and I believe we are capable of making it all the way.

“The draw has gave as a tricky test with Rob Roy but all it takes is a good run and who know, we could be in the final.”