The disappointed manager said: “I didn’t think 3-0 reflected the performance.

“It was a disappointing scoreline but I thought the performance was fine. If we look at the game, at one end it could go 1-1 but within the blink of an eye it is 2-0.

“Queen of the South were clinical in front of goal but I thought overall we were the better side but it is about scoring goals, so we have to say fair play to Queen of the South. If you come away from home and score three goals, you expect to win the game.

“We normally do score but we didn’t work their goalie anywhere near as hard as previous goalies and at the other end Jazza didn’t have too much to do either — there wasn’t a lot in the game but they were clinical.

“I think the score was harsh but we have been in the other position ourselves when we have not played quite so well and won the game two or three nil. When Cowdenbeath were here we beat them 5-1 — that wasn’t a 5-1 game but these things happen.” The result moves Queens three points clear of Dumbarton and although Murray admits Jim McIntyre’s men should now have the play-off place guaranteed, he has not yet given up, he added: “Mathematically we are still in it but I think Queens have now got it sown up.

“But we will fight right till the end, as anyone would, and in this league who knows what will happen.

“Cowdenbeath have picked up some great results and they play Queens on the last day of the season. Livingston got beaten 4-0 on Saturday and they play Queens next week, and will be looking to bounce back.

“We have seen it all season, this league is crazy.

“But I have to be honest — we are absolutely delighted with fifth — for Dumbarton just to be in the hunt for fifth would be excellent but to be five points clear in fifth is a phenomenal achievement.

“For a team like ourselves to avoid relegation last year and do so well this season is a great achievement for the players.”