HAD things gone differently, there's every chance Sauchie's game away to Whitehill Welfare could have been Darren Cummings and Darren Petrie's last.

The co-caretaker managers have been guiding the Wee County side in Martin Mooney's absence, but are now firmly at the helm after his departure was confirmed last week.

There's no doubt the young managers have experienced a baptism by fire in the dugout during a difficult spell for all involved.

But, neither ever gave up their belief in the players or their desire to put things right at Beechwood Park.

An improved showing in last Wednesday's loss to Penicuik Athletic promised much and on Saturday the Reds delivered their first league win of the season.

It was a huge relief for all involved and while they still sit bottom of the Premier Division table, Petrie is sure they will only build on things from here.

He told Advertiser Sport: "We had our doubts in the last couple of weeks and perhaps that was the players for their part but maybe it was down to Daz and I.

"Maybe we needed a fresh start and heading into Saturday's game we did think that maybe it could have been our last game."

The former Sauchie midfielder continued: "I said to them after the first half against Penicuik that I know they can do it and we just need to be more consistent.

"Every team will have a spell against you and it is just how you see that spell out. They showed that we can do it.

"The vibe in the changing room after the Whitehill game is the way it should be every week, especially with the set-up we have and the size of the club.

"Hopefully this is just the start and if we pick up the points at the weekend then we are right back in the mix."

Sauchie took the lead after only seven minutes when makeshift striker Stevie Dolan tapped home after the keeper spilled Kyle Turnbull's effort.

Stewart Houston, rather harshly, gave away a penalty less than ten minutes later as the Midlothian side equalised from the spot.

But, a wonder strike from Graeme McGregor secured all three points to draw the Reds level on points with Craig Meikle's side.

"It was good and what a difference from this season," Petrie, 24, said. "They weren't up to much but it is hard to go away.

"They made it difficult and we got stuck in and matched them in that side of the game and the rest took care of itself.

"We got a bit of luck and we got better breaks of the ball which we haven't been getting for the last few weeks.

"The full team was excellent, but I have to give a special mention to Graeme McGregor who was the best I have ever seen him."

Sauchie welcome Whitehill Welfare on Saturday to Beechwood Park and a win could take them out of the relegation zone and Petrie is raring to go.

"I just wish we had them in full-time now so we could work on stuff," he said. "But, we will get there and I am confident now that I know what the players are capable of."