STRIKER Rory Loy believes Falkirk have finally shown their title credentials after a slow start to the Championship campaign following their goalless draw with Dundee United.

But he has called on the club's supporters to show more respect to manager Peter Houston, even though a first victory has yet to be recorded after six games.

Loy said: “I couldn’t quite understand the fans booing at the end of a game we played well in and nearly won. The manager has been here three years and he’s finished second twice, got to a play-off final and a Scottish Cup final. This is his first sticky patch.

“In my opinion, we will be fine. The manager has been through worse in his career and he is not allowing any anxiety to creep in. He brings a calmness because of his experience.

“We’re a wee bit behind but the division is so even this season. Previously we have had Rangers, Hearts and Hibs.

“No disrespect to Dundee United, who will class themselves as a team above the rest, but I don’t think there is a lot of difference between them, ourselves, Dunfermline, St Mirren and Morton – who are always there battling.

“We’re 10 points behind top spot but in my first time here we were 12 points behind in November then we were two points clear in February, so that just shows you how quickly it can turn.”

United may have won the game had Scott McDonald not missed with a close-range header just before half-time and defender Lewis Toshney knows they need to get back on track soon after three games without a win.

He said: “The fans want performances and wins from us but we haven’t been good enough. That’s the truth.

“Obviously, we need to put that right. It takes time to gel but it will come for us.”