Murdo McKinnon says ‘unacceptable’ Burgh display cost them in Renfrew derby defeat

15-04-2026 19:30

WoSFL Prem Matchday 27 (11/04)

Keanie Park

Johnstone

Renfrew

2 - 3

Player statistic

		29'		Aiden Malcolm (Assist: Dominic Innes)
		39'		David McCallum
Broque Watson		75'
Ryan Cummins		85'
		90'		Aiden Malcolm

Johnstone Burgh manager Murdo McKinnon did not hold back in his assessment after his side’s 3–2 defeat to Renfrew at Keanie Park.

Speaking to the Burgh’s in-house media, Calum O’Neill, after the match, McKinnon said his team “got what we deserved” following what he described as their worst performance during his time at the club.

“I thought we got what we deserved, to be totally honest with you. I thought our first-half performance was diabolical – probably the worst performance I’ve seen in my time at the club.

“Defensively we were atrocious, absolutely atrocious. And through the game we squandered a number of chances as well.”

McKinnon was particularly critical of the defending at set plays, despite Burgh seeing that as an area of strength in recent weeks.

“The goal we lose from a set play is just diabolical for me. We think we’re strong from set plays and have scored a couple recently, but the manner of that goal is not good enough.”

He revealed the message at half-time was clear, with standards needing to improve across the pitch.

“At half-time the message was quite simple – the standard of performance was unacceptable. Individually and as a team, absolutely unacceptable. It had to be upped dramatically across the pitch.”

Despite a second-half fightback that saw Burgh level the match, McKinnon said his side were fortunate to still be in the game and did not deserve anything from it.

“They came out with a bit of a jag on it, but we spoke about starting well, winning first contacts and setting the tone, and we did the polar opposite.

“We made changes to try and get back into the game, changing personnel and shape. We got a spark, and to be honest we were probably lucky to still be in it.

“We get the goal, we get the spark. Young Jude comes on and gets the second. Their goalkeeper makes two world-class saves, particularly the one from the header.

“We had chances at the end where we maybe could have nicked it, but that would have been undeserved. I don’t think we deserved anything out of the game.”

The Burgh boss also questioned the mindset of some players, suggesting standards have dropped too often.

“I strongly think some individuals need to take a look at themselves in terms of the performances they’re putting in.

“It seems to be happening regularly now, so they need to decide whether they want to be at the club and work for the club.

“That standard of performance is miles off where we need to be. When you cross that white line, you need to give your all, make good decisions, do your job well and show leadership.

“We lacked all of those things.”

Looking ahead to Saturday’s trip to Shotts Bon Accord, McKinnon warned there must be a clear improvement.

“If we go there with the same attitude, performance levels and energy, we can expect the same result.

“Shotts are well organised and will have a game plan. We need to stick to ours and we need people to stand up and be counted.

“We need a performance on Saturday. What’s being dished out at the moment is totally unacceptable.

“I’ll reflect on my own performance and the staff will do the same, but other people in the building need to reflect on theirs as well.”