Dalbeattie Star boss Eddie Warwick refused to blame the conditions after his side were thumped by Rangers’ youngsters.
On a wet and windy day in Dumbarton, Star were beaten 6-1 and remain rooted to the bottom of the Lowland League.
Warwick said: “We just sucked it up and got on with it. It was a tough game and they’re able to bring on players they’ve just signed for a quarter of a million pounds.
“We didn’t start the game that well and gave ourselves a mountain to climb but the players showed character. They kept working and didn’t give up.
“It’s easy enough blaming the conditions but it’s the same for both teams.
“They’ve managed to play them and score six goals, we’ve scored one.
“Most teams are losing five or six against Rangers, that’s the normal result.
“We showed character and worked hard on a difficult day – we were very under strength and we’ve got a few injuries at the moment.”
A brace from Connor Young – one from the penalty spot – sent Rangers on their way as they led 4-0 at the break, Charlie Lindsay and Robbie Ure also on the scoresheet.
Myles Gaffney struck early in the second half to give Star hope before Ure restored the advantage, James Graham rounding off the scoring.
Former Queen of the South youngster Harry Hay was involved as a trialist and has now signed permanently with Peter Mendy moving to Islecroft on loan from Palmerston.
And former Annan and Cowdenbeath striker David Cox has also joined Star in their bid to beat the drop.
However, they’ll take a break from that fight this weekend as they host South of Scotland League Cup winners Creetown in the South of Scotland Challenge Cup.
Star are likely to be without a number of players who are either injured or not fully fit.
Saturday’s game will be played at Palmerston Park with a 1.30pm kick-off. Entry is by the West Stand.
