SHATTERED Ardrossan Winton Rovers boss Sandy MacLean conceded his side's promotion chances had all but ended following a shock weekend defeat.

Leaders Winton went down 1-0 at home to Maybole and now have only one remaining match - at home to Muirkirk on Saturday.

It was the Ardrossan side's fifth loss of the season, while the chasing pack of Whitletts Vics, Kello Rovers and Darvel all have games in hand.

MacLean, who took charge almost a year ago was still coming to terms with the result on Monday night and said: "Everyone at Winton Park is really gutted and it's so disappointing. Maybole came here with a game plan and it worked. We missed some good opportunities - we hit the bar and post and their goalie made some good saves.

"I would say now we have virtually no chance of promotion. We have to beat Muirkirk on Saturday and then hope some amazing results go our way."

Meanwhile Three Towns rivals Ardeer Thistle went down 4-1 away to Premier Division opponents Troon, who had new signing Ryan Stevenson in their ranks.

However they were by no means disgraced in the Ayrshire Weekly Press Cup first round tie and Ryan Morrow put them in front before the Seasiders took charge.