DUMBARTON gaffer Gerry McCabe believes his side's 1-1 draw with Celtic can provide the ideal springboard into the new season.

Tommy Coyne netted for the Sons only for Scott McDonald to equalise with five minutes left.

But the draw with a strong Hoops side that included Jiri Jarosik, Bobo Balde, Gary Caldwell and Derek Riordan, has delighted McCabe.

He said: "Considering we had six players on the sidelines with injury the boys that came in did us proud.

"I would have to say this was probably our best performance of the pre-season and with the campaign beginning on Saturday it has come at the perfect time."

McCabe has offered trialist keeper Anton Nugent terms as he bids to fill the gap left by Stephen Grindlay's departure to Queen of the South.

lHamilton boss Billy Reid believes the return of defender Mark McLaughlin to full fitness will be like signing a new player.

McLaughlin managed only six appearances over the course of an injury-ravaged season last time out because of a groin injury.

But Reid is confident the 31-year-old's return will prove a massive plus for Accies.

The New Douglas Park gaffer said: "Mark has completed a full pre-season and is looking very good. You don't want to tempt fate but having him back at the heart of our defence will be like getting a new player."

Accies will head to Falkirk for tonight's 7.30pm kick-off as they complete their pre-season programme.

Reid will use the clash to give last term's top scorer Richard Offiong some much-needed game time.

The Hamilton boss said: "Richard will get his first run out tonight after struggling with tight hamstrings." Morton gaffer Jim McInally will continue talks with Slovenian hitman Janni Sturm as he bids to beat off interest from Gretna, Dunfer-mline and Dundee to sign the striker on a one-year deal.