REJUVENATED Ardrossan Winton Rovers produced their "best performance of the season" on Saturday.

That was the message from manager Bryan Slavin, following the 4-1 victory against pre-season title favourites Irvine Victoria.

Slavin, who played in defence, was impressed with his team's effort and said: "That's by far the best we have played since I took over and hopefully we have now turned the corner. It was a must win game for us. We were the hungrier team and deserved it.

"Irvine Vics are favourites to win the league but we aim to challenge for a promotion place."

Winton on Saturday host Annbank United and Slavin said: "We beat them earlier in the season at Dam Park and must look to take the three points."

Meanwhile Kilbirnie Ladeside have been dealt a blow as recent signing Dominic McLaren has been ruled out with a broken bone in his foot.

The 20-year-old defender suffered the injury in Saturday's 1-1 home draw against Pollok.

Boss Budgie McGhie said: "It's unfortunate to lose Dominic as he has been playing well."

Of the game the manager commented: "We had chances to win and the players were disappointed not to take all three points."

Ladeside on Saturday host Lanark United in the Scottish Junior Cup third round.

But the boss is taking nothing for granted and said: "They are in a lower league but have nothing to lose. We will approach the game the same way as the Penicuik tie in the last round and hopefully with home advantage we will get through."

Beith manager Johnny Millar was happy with his team's performance as they swept aside Hurlford United 3-0 at home to stay top of the Premier Division.

He said: "I was delighted for our young striker Thomas Collins, who got a hat-trick, we have competition for places upfront. We dominated the match and have a good record in the league."

They head to Fife on Saturday to face Crossgates Primrose in another Scottish Cup tie and Millar said: "They won 4-0 on Saturday and are not a bad side, our coach Tam Miller watched them. But hopefully we can get through."