The Farmer’s Boys had to battle back from behind to seal the victory over their Aberdeenshire rivals at the Brig O’Lea, but Whiteford insists he was impressed with the resolve of his side.

Dunipace are the visitors to Neilston on Saturday, and Whiteford hopes to see an improvement in his ranks.

He told Barrhead Sport: “It took us a little while to get going on Saturday but it was a decent game and I think we were worthy winners in the end.

“We fell behind but the boys did well to come back and secure the win with two late goals.

“We have been a bit up and down in recent weeks and it is something that we need to try and sort out. But it was pleasing to see the boys have enough will to fightback and secure our passage into the next round on Saturday.

“Hopefully we can begin to build on the result and see where it takes us against Dunipace.” The 3-1 victory over Dufftown has ensured Neilston’s name is firmly in the hat for the second round draw.

This weekend’s fixture with Dunipace is however a more pressing concern. Pace currently sit bottom of the table with zero points, but Whiteford is quick to insist it will not be an easy tie.

He added: “We have played Dunipace many a time over the past few seasons and they have always provided difficult opposition.

“If we are to be there or thereabouts come the end of the season then it is a game that we really need to be winning, but we won’t be underestimating them in the slightest.” It has proved to be a difficult start to life in the Central League First this season for the Farmer’s Boys.

The Brig O’Lea side have struggled to get a run of results together, but Whiteford stresses it has been no more difficult than he expected.

He said: “We always knew that this season was going to be hard. It was only two years ago that we won this league and it was difficult then.

“Anyone could beat each other in this league. We know it will be hard, and results haven’t been the best, but we want to try and be around mid-table come Christmas then push on.”