LEARN FROM DEFEAT says MacPherson
Queens manager Gus McPherson believes that his players have learned a lot from their weekend cup exit ... reports The Dumfries and Galloway Standard.
Two goals in extra-time handed Queens an early exit from the Ramsdens Cup, the same competition the club got to the final of last season.
MacPherson insists that,despite the result,his players will use the defeat as an important learning tool.
"We didn't start the game well but for most of the second half we controlled the game and were very very comfortable"
"We were a bit concerned as the game went into extra time as, at this stage of the season, you don't really prepare for this"
MacPherson also believes that the competitiveness of the game - something lacking from pre-season fixtures - is ideal preparation for his side as they prepare to begin their league campaign.
McPherson was impressed by the competitive debut of strike pairing Tom Brighton and Kevin Smith and is pleased with attacking options of Danny Carmichael,Nicky Clarke along with Gavin Riley and Ryan Smiley.
Queens have a chance to return to winning ways with a South West derby against old rivals Stranraer in the Scottish Communities League Cup at Palmerston.
The Cleyholers are in dire straits after a real thumping in the Ramsdens Cup by 8-0 to Greenock Morton last Saturday. Manager Keth Knox has a huge task in lifting his side and it's reported he was looking to add to his squad late last night.
Queens will never have a better chance in recording a handsome victory over the Cleyholers and for many of the Palmy faithful a first chance to look at the new Queens under MacPherson and Millen.
Queens report that new signing Lee Robinson will be in an almost injury free squad but will be giving the Stranraer team the utmost respect and it may be a tense afternoon at Palmy.
We hope the Queens support turn out in large numbers and cheer the Doonhamers to victory