STIRLING ALBION manager Stuart McLaren admitted his side's performance in their League Two defeat to Queen's Park fell well below the high standards they have set in recent weeks.

The Binos' seven-match unbeaten run came to an end at the National Stadium thanks to John Carter's second-half strike, and the Albion gaffer had no complaints with the result.

McLaren told Stirling News Sport: “Had we played well and been a little bit unlucky we would have accepted that but we're disappointed because it wasn't the real Stirling Albion out there.

"We were off our game and we can have no complaints. But you have to give credit to Queen's Park because they had a bit of hunger and desire which gave them an edge.”

McLaren named Craig Beattie in his squad for the first time since the striker was injured in August and the manager believes the former Scotland international's presence will give the rest of the squad a boost.

He said: “I think it will give the squad a lift more so when Craig is able to take part. He has showed good leadership and has passed on his knowledge and experience to the younger players which has been great.”

The Binos host Cumbernauld Colts in the Scottish Cup on Saturday and the manager warned that his players would have to improve if they were to avoid an embarrassing slip-up.

McLaren added: “It will be a challenging tie. You never take anything for granted against a team from the tier below.

"If we play like we did on Saturday Cumbernauld Colts may have enough quality to beat us but if we play like we have done recently we will give ourselves a great chance.”