A DUMBARTON amateur football club say even the backing of Scotland international John McGinn wasn’t enough to help them secure their place in senior football.

St Patrick’s FPs lost out in their bid to gain entry into the West of Scotland Football League after clubs instead voted for Knightswood Football Club to be admitted.

And in a statement released on social media channels, St Pat’s chiefs admitted everyone at the club is devastated to miss out in what is their 70th anniversary year as a club.

It read: “On Sunday, we had our bid to enter the West of Scotland Football League voted against us by member clubs.

“Firstly, we would like to congratulate Knightswood FC on winning the votes needed and wish them the best of luck for the season ahead.

“Naturally, for St Patrick’s FP’s, we are all disappointed by the outcome to not get the one remaining spot.

“Having success in the amateur leagues and cups for over 70 years, it was a natural progression for us as a football club to make.

“The club has worked tirelessly behind the scenes trying to make our bid the best it could be whilst competing on the pitch, trying to secure our third league title in a row.

“We met all the requirements needed to enter the league.

“We would like to thank West Dunbartonshire Council for their support throughout the process and look forward to working with them in the months ahead.

“Also, we extend our thanks to current Scotland and Aston Villa player John McGinn, who backed our bid.

“This decision won’t deter us from continuing the hard work that has already been done to take the club to the next level.

“For us, this isn’t the end…it’s only the beginning.”

Saints are managed by former Aberdeen player Zander Diamond and were looking to become the fourth senior team based in the area behind Dumbarton, Vale of Leven and Lowland League side Broomhill, who announced a five-year ground share at the Rock last week.