STEWART HOUSTON says Sauchie's victory over Penicuik shows they are moving in the right direction as they look to climb away from the Super League relegation zone.

The Beechwood Park side were unfancied before kick off against a side who still harbour title ambitions, but Houston, who played a starring role, believes Sauchie dominated.

And the defender is desperate for his side to kick on and continue their rise up the table.

Houston told Advertiser Sport: "It was a tough game. There were times when we had to dig in but at the same time, I never really had any doubts that we'd go on to win it.

"They only had a couple of chances here and there, and Darren Dolan has barely had a save to make. We were on top for most of the game.

"They are fighting at the top of the league, but I think they're starting to find it a bit more difficult. They're definitely realising there's good teams out there who are capable of beating them.

"It's a great three points for us. We've been up and down so far this season but we're in a solid bit of form just now. We've had a few good results.

"We are putting together a good run so hopefully we can kick on from here and keep on climbing the table.

"We have just got to keep climbing. It's important that we work hard to get as high up as we can because we don't want to be involved in a relegation battle. That's not where this team should be."

Houston arrived in September as part of a new-look defence, and since then, Sauchie's fortunes have dramatically improved, with five wins from their last six games.

He said: "We have really improved at the back and the clean sheets have been coming. When we have conceded it has just been the odd goal.

"That's a relief for everyone, including the forwards because it means there's less pressure on them. If you keep a clean sheet you're guaranteed a point so it's always a positive."

The versatile defender is fully focused on Saturday's Scottish Cup clash at Bellshill and says momentum will be on Sauchie's side going into the encounter.

Houston added: "The Bellshill game is a big one. On paper we are the favourites going into it but we have to make sure we don't go in cocky.

"Anything can happen in the Scottish Cup, and they will be capable of causing us problems. They'll be right up for it so it will be a battle.

"We'll be right up for it as well and we've got to carry that winning mentality into this week. We have a bit of momentum behind us now so hopefully that will help us through the game."