Lee Bullen has warned his table toppers they now have a target on their backs.
Ayr United sit three points clear at the Championship summit following last Friday night’s win at Hamilton.
But the performance left Bullen far from impressed – and he’s admitted he expects better if the lead is to be maintained.
He told the Ayrshire Post: “I was frustrated, but that’s because of the standards this group has set itself to this point.
“We were way off it at Hamilton and we know that – but we found a way to win.
“So from that point of view, I have to be delighted with the character that we showed.
“That is only going to stand us in good stead.
“But do I want to see better from us? Yes I do.”
Dipo Akinyemi’s double and a late penalty from Ben Dempsey dug out the three points and means Ayr head to face Inverness this weekend in fine fettle.
Bullen said: “We’re going up there full of confidence but we know this league by now.
“It is incredibly tight and the teams in behind us are not going anywhere. They all have their sights set on us right now.
“We just have to take one game at a time and that’s exactly what we’re doing.”
Akinyemi’s exploits continue to create headlines with the striker’s 13 goals in 15 games propelling both him and Ayr to new heights.
Bullen said: “He’s been fantastic but a striker is only as good as the ammunition he gets and Dipo would be the first to credit those around him.
“The boys are showing a real unity, a togetherness and a band of brothers mentality – and it’s great to see.”
Ayr travelled up the A9 this afternoon ahead of the clash against a Caley side who are without a win in their last five.
Logan Chalmers returned to training this week and should be involved against his former side tomorrow.
Frankie Musonda and Jordan Houston are set to miss out as they continue their returns from injury.
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