Thistle players were ‘running on empty’ after four games in a week, as they went for a relaxing sauna and swim on Monday evening’s training session at the Vikingar!

These were the words of Thistle manager Sandy MacLean as they face up to Maybole at Barrfields, looking for maximum points (2pm kick-off) But they have suffered another injury bodyblow, as impressive young defender Creag Little has been ruled out for 4-6 weeks after he twisted his ankle in the Talbot semi-final clash. Both midfielder Barry Stanton and defender Barry McLaughlin are missing through suspension this weekend.

The good news for Largs is that experienced forward Willie McClure is back in training and looking close to returning to fitness.

With only one point from two matches so far, Largs now have two home games in a row to come, and need to capitalise.

Sandy said: “It was difficult for our players on Saturday, with McDonald, Marks and Struthers all carrying injuries, but they played on. Under the circumstances, it was a good point, although we are disappointed not to get three.” Struthers and Glenn Thompson both have back injuries, while Marks had a foot injury, while Sean Pierce and Willie McClure have longer term injuries.

Reflecting on the Ardagh Cup, Sandy said: “The real disappointment was that we conceded after four minutes against Auchinleck, and again on 92 minutes - for a good 85 minutes, we matched Talbot, and it was disappointing that we didn’t learn from conceding early from last season.

“And I would say that our 4-1 quarter final victory over Hurlford was as good a performance as any of my teams ever- it could have been 8-1. We had four first class chances which we did not take against the Scottish Cup champions. They deserve high praise indeed for that display.” But the bread and butter of important league points is now all encompassing for Thistle with Ayrshire opponents Maybole, and Irvine Vics, next up at Barrfields.

“It is another challenge, and Maybole have won their last three visits to Barrfields, so we will have to fight and earn it.” said Sandy.

* Thistle’s new keeper signing Ian Nixon played against Largs earlier this season in the Ardagh Cup for bitter rivals Kilbirnie!

Sandy, who has known the former Greenock High School amateur player for a long time, was surprised, and asked him about his availability before signing him.

Sandy explained: “Ian played three games for Kilbirnie at the start of the season. I think he actually featured for Largs before when George Wall brought him to the club when he was with Morton Under 19s. He is now 32, but more than able to fill in for Grant Weir.”