Jordan McGregor says the Diamonds must be brave if they are to get a result against high-flying Ayr United at Somerset Park on Saturday.

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The towering central defender was part of the Airdrie side which got back to winning ways against Queen's Park two weeks ago, putting an end to a disappointing run of results.

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McGregor (20) was happy with the overall performance.

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"I was very pleased with the way we played - despite losing two sloppy goals which could have been easily prevented, I think we played some good football.

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"We were more clinical than we have been in recent weeks."

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That cutting edge provided the reward for an excellent counter-attacking display with each of Airdrie's four goals having something of a 'breakaway' feel about them.

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McGregor feels this could be a key attribute in Airdrie's success this season.

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"We have good pace up the park, and we've got a lot of individuals who are very good at getting the ball down and moving it fast.

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"I think we'll keep improving as the weeks go by, so I see our pace on the counter as being one of our biggest strengths."

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The 4-2 victory at New Broomfield was the first 'official' match of Stevie Findlay's tenure as first team coach, after the former U20s supremo had assisted in the dug-out in previous weeks.

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The appointment was a pleasing one for McGregor.

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"It's definitely brought some stability to the squad. He and Fitzy have been doing a very good job and they're creating a real bond with the players."

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With the international break out of the way, the Diamonds are back in action this weekend - facing a difficult trip to Somerset Park to face second-placed Ayr United.

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Under former Airdrie boss Ian McCall, the Honest Men have been quick to stake their claim for an early return to the Championship, sitting three points behind leaders Raith Rovers after eight league games.

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Jordan is expecting a tough game on the west coast, but believes Airdrie can get a result.

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"Ayr will be a physical side so I think we need to match them in that department and be solid defensively, because they have the quality to take advantage of any mistakes.

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"We need to play to our strengths, which means being brave, getting on the ball and passing it around Ayr to break them down."

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First team coach Findlay is also eager to get back into action.

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"We're really looking forward to the game, which will be a tough challenge as always at Somerset Park, but we'll go and be positive.

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"We'll have to ensure we're at our best on the day, but I believe we have the players to compete."

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Steven Reid is the man in charge, having previously refereed Airdrie's opening day fixture at Forfar Athletic.