The performance was not our best but it was a big improvement from recent form. Pearson's return and Grimshaw's contribution from right back were big factors in the improvement. Kennedy and McManus played their part in the nervous last quarter of the match and Ainsworth offered threats both from wide and centre. It was also significant that McDonald score his first league goal of the season soon after he was moved up to the striking position.
The vocal end of the east stand made their point about the over reaction of stewards and police in Greenock in an effective and sensible manner. They were on hand to support the team and did not deny the club any income. The empty section was noted by all in the O'Donnell stand and some who were unaware of the cause would leave the ground better informed. The reason for the protest was mentioned on the BBC radio broadcast.
The club board will meet on Monday to start the sifting of applications for the newly vacated manager's position. We can expect the same thorough process as has taken place previously. Next Saturday's game at Dundee will be followed by an international break and, in any event, Craigan and the rest of the staff are more than capable of managing the team. Longer term decisions that need the input of the permanent man are unlikely to surface ahead of the winter transfer window.
There are two games remaining (Dundee and Celtic) to complete the first cycle of fixtures and although the team has faltered and cost Baraclough his job, there is a reasonable gap between us and the play-off spot. Saturday offered some signs that we are an improving side and if that continues the new manager could be appointed to a side occupying the middle ground.