A return to the Premiership won't beckon this season - but Hamilton can take inspiration from Arbroath's push for the Championship title.
Last Saturday's 1-0 loss to the Gayfield side put an end to Accies' promotion play-off hopes after their relegation from Scotland's top flight in 2021.
It did, however, maintain Dick Campbell's side's pursuit of title glory. The part-time side trail behind Kilmarnock but have led the pack at times this campaign.
Hamilton midfielder Lewis Spence has watched their progress with interest this season as Stuart Taylor's men looked to launch a promotion charge of their own.
Now that they know second-tier football awaits them next season, the former Scunthorpe United battler insists Arbroath's story shows Accies can push right at the top.
Spence, speaking ahead of his side's trip to Morton, said: "We're getting there I think. We are quite close. I think there's been a lot of improvement and a lot of positivity.
"The style of play has changed from the way people perhaps think Hamilton play. We just need to try and end the season in a positive manner.
"We'll aim to win the next three games we have left. There's nothing between any of the teams at all. The bottom teams can beat the top teams.
"We've seen that this season and look how good Arbroath are doing this season as a part-time team. A lot of people wouldn't think they'd be pushing for the league.
"It gives us confidence that, nothing against them, but if Arbroath are up there doing really well, we can be up there next season."
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