Stenhousemuir’s superb second-half display ensured that they got off to a winning home start in the Scottish Championship last Saturday.

Marvin Bartley’s side, who won promotion last term from the third tier via the play-offs, already enjoyed a successful start to life in the second tier when they earned a point on the road at Raith Rovers on the opening weekend.

And the Warriors followed that up with a 2-0 victory at Ochilview against Greenock Morton thanks to second-half goals from Michael Anderson and Gus Stevenson.

Speaking to the Falkirk Herald, delighted boss Bartley hailed his side’s reaction after the break.

Michael Anderson celebrates scoring Stenhousemuir’s opening goal (Photo: Michael Gillen)

placeholder image — Michael Anderson celebrates scoring Stenhousemuir’s opening goal (Photo: Michael Gillen)

"We had a tough start at Raith and managed to play really well and get a deserved point,” he explained. “And to go and follow that up with a home win was brilliant. I said to the lads after the Raith game that we were here on merit. It probably felt like that again in the first half against Morton.

"We took things to another level in the second half. The reaction was superb. The players have set standards and they reached them after being short in the first half.

"We scored two really good goals. We missed some big chances too. A 4-0 scoreline wouldn’t have been harsh on us."

Midfielder Anderson opened the scoring with a fine strike from range, and Bartley was pleased with the 26-year-olds overall performance.

Gus Stevenson’s effort from a tight angle makes it 2-0 to Stenhousemuir (Photo: Michael Gillen)

"He’s previously been used in multiple positions,” Bartley said. “But we knew where we wanted Mikey to play in our system. We sat down with him just as we did with each player here.

"He’s been fantastic. The goal was brilliant. He scored a cracker against Brechin too. He is going from strength to strength. He gives you everything and you know what you are getting.

"What pleased me most was his all-round play. He did a bit of everything really well, and that isn’t an easy thing to do.”

The boss was also delighted with Hearts co-op loanee Stevenson, who marked his competitive debut for the Warriors with a goal off the bench after returning from an early season injury.

Bartley said: “Gus had so much to do for the goal. He has been brilliant. He trains so well. He has come back from Hearts raring to go after a frustrating start.”