MacPherson praise for Fleming May 11 2008
St Mirren manager Gus MacPherson commended the performance of Gretna goalkeeper Greg Fleming as the youngster denied the Buddies victory at Love Street.
The 21-year-old could find himself a club in the Scottish Premier League next season, having been a top performer for the already-relegated Borderers.
MacPherson admitted the Saints had been off form in the goalless draw.
"We played very badly in the first half, as badly as we have done all season," he said.
"We made some changes in the second half and it worked quite well but we need our strikers to take the chances they get.
"Their 'keeper played a blinder, he must have had three or four first-class saves.
"St Mirren supporters want better, they want us to win every home game, but the SPL is a tough league.
"However we must improve our strike-rate next season and try to deliver for our fans who expect so much.
"We have to be competitive and to do that it's simple, we must take our chances.
"The boys got told, If you don't perform then you are open to criticism - that goes for the players and the managers."
Gretna counterpart Mick Wadsworth was glad his side had kept a clean sheet, having been thrashed 6-1 by Inverness seven days earlier.
"Last week was horrible, in terms of the situation we are in, fighting for results and pride," said Wadsworth.
"So it was important that we stood up today and I think the boys did that.
"Last week was a one-off, six hours on the coach on the way up was hardly good preparation.
"Today the players yet again showed incredible spirit. The boys did really well."
Gretna seem certain to complete their season but their administrators have still been unable to pin down a buyer for the club.
That is worrying news for Wadsworth, who is trying to keep the players' minds off what might be around the corner.
Wadsworth said: "We have to focus on playing football. The end is near. There is no good news yet. It's worrying - for the players and all the staff.
"It's also hard for the people in Gretna as they don't know what's happening.
"It's quite sad if it all ends. I hope the people of Gretna can re-invent the football club."
"It's a strange, strange situation. But the group of young players have been a delight to work with."