The Farmer’s Boys suffered relegation back to the Central District First at the first time of asking following their promotion the year before. Having had time to reflect over the season that was, Whiteford says his side will be preparing to target the top of the league.

He told Barrhead Sport: “Looking back at it we were promoted as champions, but I think we suffered a bit of a hangover season because of that.

“We just didn’t click. We had the players capable of coping in the league but I don’t think we were ever really outplayed.

“There were four or five games where we ended up drawing when we were in a winning position, in the end that cost us potential points.

“But, the important thing is the club is in a much stronger position that it was this time last year. Ironically I think we are in a more solid footing both on and off the park despite the fact we have just been relegated — that should help us.” Neilston Juniors have experienced a number of changes over the past 12 months. Constant upheaval and the loss of key players meant the side seemed to never really settle into the Super League First.

The changes also affected the backroom staff, which also underwent some turmoil.

Whiteford added: “Last season was difficult. My assistant David Wilson left for family reasons which was a blow straight away.

“Then we brought in John Crooks. He admitted it was going to be tough but wanted to see if it would work out for him. As it happened he changed jobs and there was a lot of stuff going on so we couldn’t commit himself to the role.

“But I have to admit I was delighted when Robert Graham came back to the club. He had left before but his circumstances have changed and he was delighted to come back.

“He is certainly 150 per cent committed to the role and he gave me that drive back.

“We are in a much better position as a coaching team with Robert on board, as well as James Lennox and Kevin Fraser who form the rest of the team.

“This has allowed us to make more long term plans, it hasn’t been easy, but that is football — there will be highs and lows.”