Peter Murphy felt the controversial penalty awarded against Annan in their promotion play-off final loss at Clyde “changed the fate” of the Galabankies’ season.

Athletic held a one-goal lead from the first leg, only for Clyde’s Martin McNiff to level things up.

But Annan boss Murphy says referee Bobby Madden’s call to award the hosts a late spot-kick for a push by Steven Swinglehurst was the deciding factor in the two-legged affair as Ally Love converted to give Clyde a 2-1 aggregate win.

“I’m really disappointed that I have to come out and speak, after the season we have had, with a record points tally for Annan and being highest goal scorers in the league, about a refereeing decision,” said Murphy.

“None of their players or staff appeal for a penalty, they get a penalty awarded, and that’s changed the fate of our club from a decision we don’t feel is correct.

“Fair play to Clyde, they played well, they came out and got their goal so it was 1-1. I’d have loved to have seen the teams fight it out until the end to see who comes out on top.

"But, instead, I need to speak about one decision.”