Ryan Conroy says Airdrie are on the up as performances improve game by game.

​

The Diamonds welcome Stranraer to New Broomfield on Saturday on the back of an Irn Bru Cup win over Motherwell U20s, and midfield ace Conroy is satisfied that the side are moving in the right direction.

​

"We knew it was going to be a hard game against Motherwell, they're a decent enough team and their youths have been good for the last couple of years.

​

"I think we did well though, and we're just happy to get through to the next round, that was the main thing.

​

"Saturday will be a difficult game again. We know Stranraer have conceded a lot of goals and they'll be trying to shore things up a bit.

​

"We're creating plenty of chances and we're scoring goals, and I think we're getting better with every game. Hopefully people can see the plan starting to come together."

​

29-year-old Conroy has been deployed in a deep midfield role in the early part of the season, and his composure on the ball and range of passing are becoming increasingly influential in Airdrie's matches.

​

The former Celtic, Dundee and Queen of the South player feels he's making steady improvements to his own game.

​

"I think I'm getting gradually better as I'm getting used to the boys surrounding me. I didn't have much of a pre-season, so I'm getting fitter as well.

​

"I know there's a lot more to come from me. It's early doors."

​

Head coach Kevin McBride doesn't believe that Stranraer's disappointing start to the season is an indicator of how they'll play.

​

"They're a well organised team and it will be a difficult game, but the boys are up for the challenge."

​

Brian Reid's men currently occupy ninth spot in the League One table, having lost heavily to Livingston and Alloa in their opening fixtures.

​

They will be boosted by their Irn Bru Cup result on Tuesday though - a thumping 7-1 win over Spartans.

​

Craig Charleston is the referee.