Irons has seen a big improvement from his team in recent weeks

"We didn't let our heads go down after we lost a goal and then missed a chance to equalise with the penalty," he said.

"We kept going and showed character and great spirit as well as working the goal really well, showing a bit of composure and producing a good finish.

"This is more good reward for their hard work. They've taken a lot of stick but they've kept going and stuck in."

Interview: Gretna manager David Irons

Gretna are unbeaten in their last three outings, although they remain stranded at the foot of the SPL.

"Who knows, we may still end up being relegated but the way we've kept believing and kept fighting for each other has been terrific to see," added Irons.

"We're working on maybe getting a few players in during January but I have to say that we have lots of really honest players in the squad with plenty of ability too.

"Maybe the one thing that was missing was a bit of belief that we could get something from games and compete in this league. Maybe we're just starting to show that belief.

"We're finding our feet and players are finding that we can play at this level.

"Kenny Deuchar has come in and done really well for example.