Ayr United took the League One title on the final day of the season, just as it seemed that they had thrown it away. Defeats against Stranraer and Alloa had presented the initiative to Raith Rovers, but Ayr’s win against Albion Rovers on the final day of the season allowed them to steal in and justify their move to full-time football.
Ian McCall’s side were the most entertaining team in the division, playing a brand of attacking football that allowed them to sweep away many of their opponents. Aside from a couple of questionable spells, they were impressively consistent.
They had a formidable trio of Lawrence Shankland, Michael Moffat and Craig Moore in attack, which may be one of the best units assembled at this level of the game.
Indeed, they had quality and depth throughout their side, even riding a huge number of injury problems in their midfield at one stage. McCall had options in that part of the field, too, with outright wingers Allan Forrest and Declan McDaid able to bring his side a different dimension when required.
The defence, meanwhile, was solid enough for this level, but they may need to look to upgrade for the Championship, particularly in the heart of the rearguard, where they often operated with a couple of converted central midfielders.
In goal changes will definitely be made. Jordan Hart was prone to poor errors throughout the season, while loanee Jack Ruddy proved to be no better. It was the one clear underlying weakness in a season that saw them excel, particularly away from home.
Over the summer, the squad will need refined to an extent, but the makings of a solid team is there if they are shrewd in their moves.
