Paddy Boyle has deemed last week's League Cup performance unacceptable, and can't wait for a chance to rectify things. 

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The defender has worn the captain's armband in Airdrie's opening fixtures, and aims to lead the Diamonds to victory at Ochilview on Saturday. 

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"It's entirely understandable fans being unhappy. The performance on Saturday was unacceptable, and that was made clear in the dressing room during and after the match. 

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"However, negative vibes around the stadium - especially when we have a squad with so many young players - will not help". 

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The ex-Partick and Dunfermline defender has plenty of experience under his belt, and he believes that facing Stenhousemuir again so soon will have a positive influence. 

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"I'm delighted to be getting another crack at Stenny straight away. They outplayed us in every department and it's good to get an opportunity to rectify that so quickly". 

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Boyle is starting his second season at New Broomfield, and he's pleased that manager Gary Bollan has named him captain. 

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"It's a privilege to wear the armband and I'm proud to lead the boys out onto the pitch. 

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"It brings extra responsibility which I'm happy to take on board. It definitely makes defeats hurt that bit more, but hopefully it will make victory feel even better - starting on Saturday".

 

The Diamonds found themselves 2-0 down to Scott Booth's Warriors before staging a brief comeback, substitutes Scott Gray and Jack Kirwan combining to reduce the deficit. 

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However, Stenny restored their lead straight away, their own sub Colin McMenamin capitalising on a defensive error to secure the win. 

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Saturday's visit to Larbert may have a different prize - league points rather than cup progression - but Boyle says there is no change in preparations. 

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"The mentality is the same for every game, and that is to win". 

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Goalkeeper Lucas Birstingl and defender Robert Wilson have both signed contracts with Airdrie after featuring as trialists, and will be in the squad for the game. 

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Referee Greg Aitken is the man in the middle for the league opener.