Whiteford’s men fell 3-2 at the Brig O’Lea to John Queen’s Cumbernauld United in a game marred by some debatable refereeing decisions. The home side were twice denied penalties in the second half, whilst Martin McInnes also saw red.

However, the boss admits they weren’t at their best throughout.

He said: “We probably didn’t play our best. We were really good in the first 20 minutes and really good for the last 20 minutes but I think we lost our way a little in the middle period.

“We suddenly came back into it and I’m disappointed not to have taken anything from the game, especially when we had too really strong shouts for penalties.

“I’m not going to sit here and say that we would have won if the calls had went our way, but they would have given us a chance.” Off the field, Whiteford has been forced into a backroom reshuffle following the announcement John Crooks was leaving his position as assistant manager midweek.

Crooks, who came in to replace the departed David Wilson, will now be replaced by former Neilston coach Robert Graham.

Whiteford explained: “John has had to leave the club due to work commitments. Obviously it is unfortunate timing but he has done well for us while he was here and he goes with our best wishes.

“Robert Graham now comes in to replace him and he will be a fantastic addition. Robert was here last season and he was really desperate to come back into the fold.

“I felt that this was the ideal opportunity to do so, he knows the guys and he knows the club.” Neilston now prepare for Saturday’s trip to Thorniewood United. With the forecast not looking promising Whiteford hopes it goes ahead.

He added: “Hopefully it beats the weather. It should be a tricky match, they are scrapping for their lives, but hopefully we can produce a good performance and get the three points.”