Stirling Albion manager Stuart McLaren says the three points were the most important thing after his side saw off Montrose with a comprehensive 7-0 victory, writes Jamie Hall.

The Binos boss was delighted with his players’ efforts as they equalled their second-biggest league victory and says it is no more than they deserve for their recent efforts.

McLaren told Stirling News Sport: “The first thing is that we have got the three points. Scoring as many as seven goals helps the goal difference as well because we were level going into the game. In a league as tight as this one it could come down that deciding the league positions on the final day.

"We got the reward for the quality we have got within the squad and for the players’ effort and application. Even when we were five goals up just after half time, I don’t think they ever dropped off. They still went for it so that is pleasing.

“It sounds daft when you look at the final scoreline but the first goal is crucial.It was quite tight in that first half-hour. The second goal gives you a bit of breathing space and at that point you are hoping to go in at half-time with your clean sheet still intact and to be able to build on it. To get the goal right on half-time was key.”

Striker Darren Smith scored his second hat-trick against the Gable Endies of the season, and McLaren believes the former Motherwell man is repaying the faith shown in him during a long injury layoff.

He said: “Darren is one of those modern-day footballers who is not quite a striker, and he is not really a winger or a midfielder, but his ability to pick up space and link up with a main striker like he does with Steven Doris. His finishing is great.

"He has been consistent since he came back into the team but tonight is another sign of why we were so determined to get him back fit. His professionalism through that period was outstanding and he is getting the rewards now.”

The Binos boss is hoping his side can now kick on and secure another three points when Berwick Rangers visit Forthbank on Saturday, and says they will go into the game full of confidence.

McLaren added: “After the last postponement we looked at the run of three games – Arbroath away and the home games against Montrose and Berwick – and we were really gunning for nine points out of the three.

"To draw on Saturday was a bit disappointing in that respect but now we will go into Saturday in great spirits.

“All of the extra bits as well as the three points and the seven goals went in our favour so we just have to harness that good feeling now and make sure we bring the same determination on Saturday.”