ALLOA star Jamie McCart feels his team's battling victory over Ayr United could prove critical in the Wasps' promotion charge this season.

The defender netted his first senior goal when he levelled the scores at Somerset Park on Saturday, but taking home all three points to Clacks was, for him, much more important.

Having already shown they could match fellow title challengers Raith Rovers the week before, McCart feels there is a greater belief in their chances this season.

Looking back on the victory in Ayr, the youngster, currently on loan from Celtic, feels his equaliser came at the perfect time as the home side tried to finish the game off.

And with Alloa back on level terms, he was glad to see fellow loanee Ross Stewart grab what turned out the be the decider.

McCart told Advertiser Sport: "I'm delighted because it's my first goal in professional football. I don't score many so you have to enjoy it when you do.

"To get the win at the same time is the most important thing though.

"We were very lucky with the timing of the goal because it didn't give Ayr a chance to really get on top after taking the lead. As soon as they scored we got right back in it, so the timing was very good.

"Ross deserves the goal for his hard work and persistence. He chases lost causes down. That's what we need him to do at times, and he got his reward for it with that goal."

The Wasps have taken four points from League One's top two in the last week, having drawn with Raith Rovers at the Indodrill Stadium last time out.

And McCart believes their recent form only serves to underline Alloa's credential as they look to seal their place in the play-offs.

He said: "It's a massive victory for us, especially coming off the back of another good result against Raith last week.

"Playing the league leaders twice in the space of a week is tough but to go down to Ayr and get a victory is huge. The performance was excellent as well.

"At times we could have relaxed on the ball a bit more but overall we are delighted with the performance."

The stopper came to the club in January and his performances have been a hit with supporters since he made his debut in the Scottish Cup clash with Dundee United.

He revealed he is loving life at the Indodrill Stadium and is desperate to help the Wasps clinch promotion.

McCart added: "My first few weeks here have been brilliant so far. The changing room is great. There is a great group of boys.

"I'm just delighted to be here and to be playing regularly. Hopefully we can continue our good form and get promotion at the end of the season.

"If we can pick up more victories like that [over Ayr] then we will be well on our way."