AUCHINLECK Talbot boss Tommy Sloan has praised his players for their positive attitude after watching them lift the West of Scotland Football League Cup on Friday night.

Talbot secured what will be their only silverware of the season with a 2-0 win over Clydebank in front of a capacity crowd at Meadow Park in Irvine.

And after what’s been, by Talbot’s high standards, a season punctured by disappointment, Sloan was thrilled to see his players rewarded for their efforts – and vowed they will continue to try and “win them all”.

Auchinleck looked like the dominant side of the past couple of decades in their thrilling victory at Meadow Park, Chris Stafford and Michael Wardrope hitting the target in the second half to make sure of the trophy.

For 'Tucker' it was the perfect response to the 1-0 loss to Largs Thistle three nights previously which ultimately ended their Premier Division title hopes.

The manager told the Chronicle: “There’s a bit of freshness about the team now with a couple of younger guys in the team – that’s certainly helping.

“They got a bit of criticism in the dressing room from me after the Largs matc,h and they had to respond – and they did that really well.

“I was pleased with the manner of the victory. I think we were well worth it at the end – we nearly added to the 2-0 lead a couple of times.

“It’s just great. We’re delighted to win a trophy – we’re out of the Scottish [Junior] Cup this year, so it’s great to win a trophy.

“The season has been a bit disappointing – we’ve been beat quite a few times, which is maybe not the norm for us over the past few seasons, but I think the response tonight from the players was magnificent. I’m delighted for them.”

After playing 11 games in 29 days in April alone, Talbot have little time to draw breath, starting off a new month with a trip to Loch Park to face local rivals Glenafton tonight (Monday) – kick-off is at 7.30pm.