Stirling Albion goal hero Jack Leitch says Saturday’s last-minute winner against Bonnyrigg Rose is testament to the fighting spirit within the title-chasing Binos squad.
The midfielder’s late goal was the most recent example of the Binos’ ability to find crucial goals this season when their back has been against the wall – with this strike putting them firmly within striking distance of leaders Dumbarton after their match was called off.
It had looked like a difficult afternoon for Stirling after their Midlothian visitors had taken the lead through Callum Connolly, but the Binos fought back to delight an almost four-figure crowd who had braved the Forthbank chill.
Leitch was one of the players who came into the side on Saturday after a similarly tough game against Albion Rovers in their last outing and he admits the strength of the Binos squad means the players are kept on their toes.
The 27-year-old said: “I think the attitude and environment within the squad that we have a bit of a never-say-die approach this year which is incredible to play in and the competitiveness in the group to never accept defeat has been really evident this year.
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“I actually thought we played well at times, I don’t think we played badly as such, but we weren’t great at the same time – we were wasteful with some chances.
“It was a great finish from Flynn (Duffy) and he’s done really well for us since he’s come in and obviously at the end there, I’ve just seen Thommo (Robert Thomson) take the touch and I’ve just gone across the face and it’s gone in so just really delighted to get the result.”
Leitch also agreed with manager Darren Young’s hopes to turn Forthbank into a fortress for the rest of the campaign – with only Aberdeen and Annan having claimed victory so far this season.
And he also added a note of praise for the volunteers for helping the game beat the weather.
He added: “I think that’s what has happened this year, you really enjoy playing your football here. It’s a good stadium, great grass pitch and you’re playing with good players so there’s not really any excuses for us not to perform.
“All of the backroom staff and volunteers that came down were great and the backing we’ve had has been so good, so long may it continue.”
The tough tests keep coming for Stirling as they face a long journey down the road to take on Stranraer at Stair Park for the second time this season tomorrow.
It didn’t go so well in their last clash in Wigtownshire, with the hosts prevailing 3-1 after falling behind to an early Robert Thomson strike.
Kick-off at Stair Park is 3pm.
