Clydebank manager Gordon Moffat admits he was proud to be the one that took charge of the Bankies in their first game in Scottish football’s senior setup for 18 years – and was delighted his side could crown the occasion with a win.

Nicky Little’s second-half strike was enough to see off the threat of ten-man Largs Thistle at Barrfields Stadium in the West of Scotland Football League’s inaugural round of fixtures on Saturday.

Moff’s side were a man up for much of the afternoon after Laurie McMaster’s early dismissal for the hosts with only eight minutes on the clock, but Matt Niven did have to clear the ball off the line to keep Bankies level.

At the other end, Ciaran Mulcahy struck the post at the end of a mazy run as the visitors looked to up the tempo against their short-handed opponents.

And Clydebank were given the perfect chance to take the lead five minutes before the break when they were awarded a penalty, but Little’s effort from 12 yards was tipped around the post by former Dumbarton keeper James McGowan.

The Bankies may have been starting to wonder if it was going to be their day after hitting the post and Little’s uncharacteristic miss from the spot, but the skipper soon made amends as he converted from close range on the hour mark.

It was enough to secure all three points and Moff revealed he used club kitman Stevie McAneney to motivate his side for the game.

He told the Post: “In terms of going away from home, winning your first game, keeping a clean sheet and getting three points, then we’re delighted with it and we’ll take it.

“I explained to the players before the game about the importance of the game and it being a milestone for the club and a big deal for the club and the fans, and they all got it and bought into it about how big of a game it was.

“It’s been 18 years in the making and I made a point of highlighting the kitman before the game, because he’s been through it all with the club.

“I was really proud that me and my team were the guys chosen to take us into this moment.

“It was a big deal for me. I felt very nervous before the game because it did feel like a big event in the club’s history and I’m glad we got the points and made sure it was a good day for us.”

Clydebank are back in West of Scotland League action this Saturday, October 31, when Hurlford United are the first competitive visitors of the new season to Holm Park.

Kick-off is at 2pm, but once again, because of coronavirus restrictions, no spectators will be allowed entry.