Montrose 1 Hamilton 2: Accies boss says biggest positive was avoiding injuries ahead of play-offs

Hamilton Accies boss John Rankin says the biggest positive from their win at Montrose on Saturday was getting players vital minutes and avoiding any injuries.

Rankin’s men are playing out the rest of the League One campaign ahead of entering the promotion play-offs on May 7 and they geared up for that with a 2-1 victory over the Gable Endies.

Jamie Barjonas headed home the opener in 24 minutes for the visitors, only for Montrose to come up with an instant response through Blair Lyons.

However, defender Lee Kilday grabbed the winner – and his first-ever Accies goal – 15 minutes from time to help them return to winning ways after last week’s 2-0 defeat at home to champions Falkirk.

Rankin said: “I was pleased with the way we played against Montrose. We dominated the ball for large period, which was good.

“Montrose were aggressive at set-plays and we defended them particularly well.

“But, really, it was about building some momentum and making sure players got through the game without any injuries, that was the most important thing.

“Scotty Martin came back in and we got him minutes on the pitch. Kevin O’Hara was out for three weeks, so it was important to get him minutes under his belt as well.”

Attention now turns to Saturday’s trip to Alloa in the penultimate league game this season and Rankin said: “It will be much the same as last week, trying to get through the game without anyone getting injured and trying to build on what we are doing.

“Connor Murray has been out for a wee while and he’ll be back involved.

“It is a case of making sure the squad is as strong as possible for the play-offs and we are as prepared as we can be, physically and mentally.”

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