By Dylan Inglis
Craig Gupwell admits a tragic week at Newmains United meant his side didn’t need a team talk.
Tributes had poured in after much-loved and highly-respected chairman Ken Davies passed away suddenly last Tuesday.
Players and staff at Victoria Park were desperate to put on a performance at third-placed Ardeer Thistle that Davies would have enjoyed.
Gupwell – whose co-boss Paul is Davies’ son – was left brimming with pride at full-time despite the narrow 3-2 defeat.
A valiant effort saw United bring a two-goal half-time deficit back to level terms, but the hosts snatched things with a heart-breaking late winner.
Gupwell was gutted for his players, who he felt deserved better.
He said: “It’s been a really tough week. In terms of the team talk before the game, there was no need for one.
“Everyone went down there with the aim to make Ken proud. Unfortunately we’ve not got a point on the board.
“But in terms of the performance, if Ken was here I know he would’ve enjoyed the game.
“I’m devastated for the boys. I genuinely think we were hard done by coming away with nothing.
“Performance wise I think we were good so we feel a bit unlucky and a bit hard done by not taking anything from that game.
“The boys put in a shift and we’re proud of the way they played given the circumstances. Now we just really need to go and build on it.”
After a minute’s silence was held before the game in memory of Davies, United created some early chances.
But goals from Scott Gray and John Pirie meant Ardeer went into the break two goals to the good.
But United hit back after the resumption as Kris Jarvie netted then Michael Barton headed in an equaliser with 15 minutes to play.
Jack McWilliam’s instant reply meant their efforts were in vain though.
Gupwell added: “At half-time we said it was a game of missed chances.
“I wouldn’t say we could have had the game out of reach but when you’ve had four or five really good chances you’ve got to take a couple.
“There were lots of individual displays in there to be encouraged by.
“But it doesn’t matter unless we build on this performance.”
Newmains return to action when Renfrew visit on Saturday. Entry is £5 for adults, £2.50 for OAPs and FREE for under 16s.
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