LARGS Thistle boss Stuart Davidson has revealed that his side's recent near cup exit to Craigmark was a wake-up call for his squad, and indeed, had the desired effect, as the Barrfields side ran rampant in a five star display against Caledonian Locomotives.

It is perhaps a time to reflect and prepare for tougher challenges to come with Largs facing a tricky trip to testing away clashes in a four-day period upon their return to action against Rossvale on Saturday October 26, followed by East Kilbride on Tuesday, October 29.

Thistle are unbeaten in eight games which includes a great run into second spot in the West of Scotland Premier Division and progress in all the cup tournaments open to them.

However, incredibly, the dramatic cup tie at Craigmark last week was the closest Thistle came to losing out on that run, against a side without a win in the West of Scotland League Two this season.

Goals from Sean McLeod and Lewis Davidson put Largs two goals ahead, but Craigmark pulled it back to 2-2 and Thistle won the resultant penalty shoot-out to squeeze through in the West of Scotland Cup.

Reflecting on how close Largs came to another banana skin at Station Park in Dalmellington, Davidson said: "It was disappointing to be taken to penalties.

"We had a lot of the ball, but we didn't move it quickly enough to break down the Craigmark defence.

"They sat deep and made it difficult for us. Although we hadn't been at our best, we did take a two goal lead.

"On days when we're maybe not playing as well as we can, we need to ensure that the defensive side is solid. Their first goal had a bit of luck in that it was a cross that turned into a shot, but we shouldn't have allowed the cross in the first place.

"The second came from a long throw that we allowed them to win the first header and then we're sleeping at the back post. It was the opposite from Glenafton because we haven't managed the game properly.

"Thankfully the lads took their penalties well and big Joe does what he loves to do by saving two of theirs."

Asked whether the result from two years ago - where Largs lost out from two goals up at the same venue - played a part, Davidson responded: "Maybe, but we should be experienced enough and brave enough not to let it affect us."

Thistle's five goal salvo on Saturday was a robust response from Largs who looked much more direct and capable with a double from Lewis Davidson, and goals from Cory Hughes, Sean McLeod and Jamie Martin.

Thistle were dominant throughout the 90 minutes with Caledonian Locomotives barely registering a shot on target.

* Kilbride Thistle defeated Largs Thistle AFC 3-1 in the Budget Blinds Division One, while Largs Thistle U15s managed to get a 4-2 win on Saturday with goals from Andrew Barbour (x2), Shaun Kennaway and an own goal.