SAINTS READY FOR LEAGUE CHALLENGE

Coach Cooper backs battling Buddies to bounce back after cup exit

- COLIN PATERSON

Kate Cooper hopes a cup setback can be the launchpad for league success.

St Mirren Women lost 2-1 to Dryburgh Athletic in the quarterfinals of the Scottish Power National League Cup at Mossedge Village last Sunday.

Despite a spirited display from the SWF League One Buddies, their Championship opponents proved just too strong.

But head coach Cooper feels the experience of both the match itself and defeat could be invaluable.

"I thought we played very well," Cooper told Express Sport. "Dryburgh are in the league above us and are very seasoned in the League Cup - they have made the final several times - so they know how to get themselves there.

"I felt we competed very well and created some good opportunities but it was just the small things.