Former Meadow ace joins Buffs

Former Queen of the South star Swift, who played alongside Buffs manager Chris Strain at Irvine Meadow, was on target in the 4-2 win away to Benburb in the second round of the New Coin Holdings West of Scotland Cup.

The manager sees his new charge as a key player.

Speaking ahead of Saturday's Scottish Junior Cup Fifth Round clash away to Kelty Hearts, Strain said: "Stephen has so much experience and has played at all levels of the game. He is here at least until the end of the season and I'm sure he will do a good job for us."

He was encouraged with the weekend display and said: "It was a good performance and pleasing to score four goals away from home. We look forward to the Kelty Hearts tie. They are on a fantastic run and unbeaten in 23 games but we have players who can cause them problems and hopefully we will get a positive result - even if that means bringing them back to Abbey Park for a replay. The cup final win against them was the biggest day in this club's history for 40 years and I'm sure the fans will travel in good numbers."

Meanwhile Irvine Meadow have signed striker Joe Young, formerly of Saltcoats Victoria and Ardrossan Winton Rovers. The player can also feature in midfield.

Co-boss Michael Wardrope was encouraged with the performance in the 1-0 defeat at Pollok in the West of Scotland Cup despite the result and said: "I didn't think we played well in the first half but were stronger after the break and created chances. Jared Willet hit the bar near the end. It was a good test as we want to get back playing at that level."

Irvine Victoria have signed former Pollok, Shettleston, Arthurlie and Bellshill defender/midfielder John-Paul Fitzpatrick.

The player made his scoring debut in Saturday's 3-3 draw in a friendly away to Hurlford United .Jamie Anderson and Ryan Singleton were also on target.

Vics on Saturday host Cumbernauld United and boss Stevie Wilson said: "We are a home and must look to win."