UPBEAT Irvine Vics assistant boss Mark McCann is remaining positive, despite his team suffering their first league defeat of the season.

The Westenders lost 2-0 against Dalry Thistle in the Championship at Merksworth Park, following a 6-1 opening day win at Larkhall Thistle and a 7-2 home demolition of Kello Rovers on Wednesday night.

He said: "The scoreline was a bit harsh. They were on top for a 20-minute spell in the first half. We created chances but their goalie was outstanding in the second half.

"We must look at the bigger picture as Dalry have a good experienced team who have been together for two to three years. But all credit to our guys, they dug in and created chances although they didn't get into a rhythm of play as they had done in the last two games. You have got to take the positives. We always knew it would be a stiff test but after the last two games and scoring these goals there was a good bit of confidence.

"We also had a couple of injuries and Paul Singleton pulled out in the warm-up. We are Neilston on Saturday, that will be a stiff test but six points out of nine is good."

Vics last week signed Hamish McKinlay and Ross McKenzie, who were both on target in the opening games.

And former Ayr United, Troon and Darvel striker Roddy Paterson is set to sign tonight (Tuesday).

Irvine Meadow boss Brian McGinty was relieved to take a point as they came from behind to draw 2-2 at home to Kirkintilloch Rob Roy.

But he feels there is much room for improvement from the team, who were promoted from the Super First Division last season.

He said afterwards: "They got a late goal but were lucky to take anything from the game as I didn't think we played very well and again we made some mistakes, conceding a couple of goals.

"But it's good if we can still get something even if we don't play well."

Meadow tomorrow (Wednesday) host Whitletts Victoria in the last 16 of the Sectional League Cup.

McGinty said: "We look forward to the game against Whitletts, who had a great win at Arthurlie on Saturday and if we can win that game I think it would give us confidence."

Meadow on Saturday travel to Townhead Park to face the manager's old club Cumnock and he said: "I played there a long time ago and know people therer but we must aim to get something from the game."