Neilston manager Kevin Muirhead admits getting a safe pair of hands between the sticks was vital after losing his number one this summer.

Grant Hay was one of five Farmer’s Boys to sign for Benburb at the end of the 2022/23 campaign, leaving Neilston short in the goalkeeping department.

However, Muirhead returned to former club Muirkirk to recruit Nathan Bogle (pictured) and is confident the new arrival will be a big success.

He told Barrhead Sport: “Nathan is someone I know very well. He is a first-class goalkeeper and we had to battle hard to get him.

“Beith wanted him but I’m delighted I could use that relationship I have with Nathan to get him signed.

“With Grant Hay moving to Benburb, it was important we could get a first-class replacement for him and Nathan is certainly that.”

The Brig O’Lea side returned to action on Saturday in a pre-season friendly with Dalry Thistle.

Darren Jones and Nathan Gordon scored for Neilston but it wasn’t enough to prevent a 3-2 defeat.

Muirhead’s troops head to Arthurlie on Wednesday night for an East Renfrewshire derby, with the Kenny Hay Memorial Trophy up for grabs, and kick-off is at 7.30pm.