ST Mirren had to produce a second-half comeback to avoid Petrofac Cup elimination on Tuesday night.

The Buddies travelled to League Two side Annan Athletic in search of a much-needed confidence boost following two defeats on the spin. But that plan was immediately thrown into jeopardy in the opening minute when Peter Weatherson converted from the spot following Jim Goodwin's foul on Josh Todd.

Ian Murray had made seven changes to the side that fell 2-1 at home to Dumbarton on Saturday. One of those to come in was new signing Jamie Langfield, but the veteran keeper could do little to stop Weatherson's spot-kick.

Annan looked good for their shock lead throughout the first-half, with Stuart McColm and Todd putting the Saints backline under pressure.

At the other end Alan Gow forced a save from Jordan Hart before Lewis McLear volleyed just wide of the target.

Half-time: Annan Athletic 1-0 St Mirren It was going to take an improvement from Saints in the second-half if they were going to progress, and thankfully for the visiting fans, that improvement came.

St Mirren levelled on 51 minutes when left-back Jordan STEWART fired home from the edge of the box to hand the visitors hope.

Langfield had to be on his toes to stop Weatherson once again just before the hour mark and that save would prove crucial as the Buddies went in search of a winner. New signing Calum Gallagher was the supplier seven minutes later when he cut back for experienced striker GOW to cooly slot home from 10 yards out and seal St Mirren's passage to the next round.