Neilston co-manager Martin Campbell has revealed new signing Robbie Halliday turned down better offers to sign for the Farmer’s Boys.

Former Clydebank defender Halliday joins the Brig O’ Lea side after spending last season with Kilbirnie Ladeside who finished fifth in the SJFA Premiership.

And with Neilston sitting a league below Kilbirnie, Campbell knew he had a battle on his hands to secure Halliday’s signature.

He admitted: “I’ve got to say, Robbie had other offers on the table and certainly monetary wise there were better offers than what we could offer.

“But I think he liked me speaking to him and getting my point across about how ambitious we are. He liked the sound of that and we’re delighted to get him on board.

“I got wind that he wasn’t re-signing at Kilbirnie so we put the wheels in motion to bring him and thankfully we did. He’s coming from the top league to come and play with us. Hopefully he’ll bring that experience and a good bit of quality to us.”

Campbell and fellow co-manager John Paul Dow have stated they’re in search of experience as they prepare for life in the SJFA West Region Championship after promotion and have already added former Arthurlie defender Mark Blakey to their side.

Blakey arrived with plenty of experience too and will play a vital part in Neilston’s new-look defence along with Halliday.

Campbell said: “I said last week that I was looking for experience and Robbie fits the bill. We’ve known Robbie over the years from his time at Clydebank and then he got his move down to Kilbirnie Ladeside. He’s someone we’ve come up against and known over the years and he’s someone who has always stood out.”

Neilston’s pre-season started on Monday with Campbell and Dow welcoming the two new faces as well as casting their eye over a number of trialists.

Speaking earlier this week, Campbell added: “Monday night was our first pre-season session. We were at the Renfrew Leisure Centre and it was just a light one to blow the cobwebs off and then we’ll get right in about it tonight (Wednesday). Robbie came in and met the boys along with Mark Blakey.

“We’ve got another few boys who are coming in to try and impress us and try and win a contract. We’re non-stop at the minute trying to bring in new faces before the first pre-season friendly.

“We’re looking for one midfielder and one forward to bolster us up front. I think if we can get two of the calibre we’ve already signed I’ll be very happy.”

Neilston have also found out who they’ll face in the Central Sectional League Cup after last week’s draw which took place at Hampden.

The Brig O’Lea side will line up against local rivals Arthurlie, Johnstone Burgh and Benburb.

And boss Campbell wasn’t happy with the draw. adding: “It’s a tough draw. Every year at Neilston we get a tough league section. The toughest one will be the Arthurlie game. That’s the big derby game that everyone is looking forward to.”