LUKE RANKIN hailed Alloa’s ‘win at all costs’ mentality as the youngster popped up with another late goal against Stenhousemuir.

The 19-year-old caught onto a ball from David McKay and charged against Gregor Buchanan, beating the centre half and unleashing an early shot.

The timing of Rankin’s shot was pivotal, catching Stennhousemuir keeper Darren Jamieson on his other foot, rifling his effort into the bottom corner before the shot-stopper can react properly.

“David picks me out really well,” Rankin said. “Buchanan was on a booking at the time so we thought we’d get at him and commit him and see what I could do.

“I cut inside, make that half a yard for myself and my first thought was to just get a shot away.

“I didn’t have many opportunities in the game so I thought this was my opportunity, cut inside, get a shot away and see what happens.”

Rankin’s goal against Stenhousemuir continues an electric run of form for the Alloa striker, who has been giving Andy Graham’s trust in leading the line this season.

Hot off the heels of an exhilarating loan spell with East Stirling, Rankin has been at the centre of big moments this season, including a double against St Johnstone and a stoppage time equaliser against Montrose.

Missing a short spell through injury, Rankin explained to Advertiser Sport that he knew it was up to him to seize his opportunity when it comes.

He went on: “Sammo did really well while I was out so now it’s up to me to push on as much as I can for my spot.

“The gaffer gives me that opportunity so I just need to do my best and score as many goals as I can for the team.

“The gaffer never looks at age. He reiterates all the time that if you’re good enough, you’ll play.

“That’s my hope which was to come in off the back of a loan spell and hit the ground of running and score a couple goals.

“This builds my confidence and there’s nothing better than playing high on confidence.”

Alloa have become somewhat known for late goals this season, scoring no less than five this season past the 75th minute mark.

Rankin was asked about how Andy Graham has instilled his mantra in the team, with the youngster explaining that they will always look to win games of football.

He added: “The gaffer has always said we’ll never play for a draw, we’ll always play for a win and that’s the mentality he’s instilled in the squad.

“That’s one of the reasons we’re doing so well and scoring late goals. You see the substitutions he’s making, it’s 0-0, a cagey game and he’s making changes to go two up top and chase the game.

“It exemplifies the way he wants to play, it’s win at all costs.”