We wanted to win cup but now we'll focus on league, says Raith striker

The striker spoke of the disappointment in the changing room following the 3-2 loss after revealing that the players had their eyes on the silverware.

“We said before the game that it was a cup we wanted to win,” McManus told the Press.

“It’s a defeat we’ll take badly – it’s not one that we’re just letting go.

“The league is the priority for us but we feel for the fans who travelled up to Forfar.

“We just weren’t good enough – there isn’t anyone who could give themselves pass marks. We just need to make sure next week’s training is full pace, and that we get back to our best and ready for next week.”

McManus b agged his third goal of the season in the Station Park defeat but admitted it did not ease the pain of the result.

“As striker it’s always good to get a goal , but it doesn’t really help the feeling of defeat,” he said. “We’re all a bit gutted with ourselves.”

The focus returns to the league this Saturday and Raith could open up a nine point gap over Falkirk with a victory at Stark’s Park.

Despite their slow start, McManus expects the Bairns to be one of Rovers main rivals for promotion, and he is determined to set down an early marker.

“The league is going to be tough so it’s a great chance to open a wee bit of gap against a very good team,” he said.

“I’ve no doubt they’ll be back up there this season, so if we can get any advantage over them this early on we’ll take it.”