Brechin boss Ray McKinnon has found some positives in a Glebe Park season that failed to bring the push for the play-offs that was expected last summer.
Injuries ruined any hope of a successful campaign and after a brief flirtation with relegation, Brechin secured their League One status last Saturday by defeating Stranraer 2-1.
McKinnon said: “We have achieved safety but overall it has been a disappointing season. We aimed for the promotion play-offs but injuries hurt us.
“It has been a really challenging season for us as a group and a really challenging season for me individually.”
After 18 months in his role McKinnon reckons that he is now better prepared for next season.
He explained: “The experiences I have had in what was my first full season will stand me in good stead.
“Some managers may be in their job for a long time before they get the run of injuries we had.
“I will take time to reflect on it all and re-shape the squad and remodel how we do things for next season. It has been a great learning curve and I need to use what I have learned.”
The omens are good for next season with Andy Jackson and Alan Trouten already signed up.
McKinnon said: “They are two of the best players in the league and they have their pick of teams but they enjoy it here. Their signings give us something to build on.”