Muirkirk Juniors manager Kevin Muirhead was full of praise for his side’s performance as they beat Ashfield 2-1 at Burnside Park to maintain their 100 per cent start to the season.

The Kirk got off to the best possible start as they went 2-0 up within the first 10 minutes thanks to goals from from Gavin Goodall and Gavin Hay.

The visitors had a chance to get back into the game on the half-hour mark when they were awarded a penalty but it was brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Nathan Bogle as Kirk went into the break with a two-goal advantage.

However, early in the second-half Ashfield pulled one back ensuring a tense finish but Kirk held on to win their second consecutive match in Conference A of the West of Scotland Football League.

Boss Kevin Muirhead was delighted with the win and praised his side’s defensive display, especially his goalkeeper.

He told the Chronicle: “It’s always good to get three points.

“Both sides fought for everything and it was a very physical battle with Ashfield. They are a strong team so we were pleased to get the victory.

“Part of our game plan was to start quickly as this was Ashfield’s first league game due to postponements while we had already played competitive action so we thought if we could start quickly, we will catch them flat-footed and that’s exactly what we did and we were 2-0 up after nine minutes.

“Ashfield changed their shape and put us under pressure but we held on. It was great defensive display.

“Our goalkeeper Nathan was outstanding. He has been with us for several years now and he just keeps getting better and better.

“The penalty save came at a crucial time in the game.

“We started well last season and won our first six games so we just need to take each game as it comes, and hope to build on our performances so far this season.”

Elsewhere in Conference A ,Kello Rovers kicked-off their league campaign with a 1-1 draw at home to Renfrew.

This weekend Muirkirk travel to Renfrew while Kello face Annbank.