Alan Archibald targeting survival with Partick Thistle

Alan Archibald believes top-flight survival is once again the target for Partick Thistle as the start of the Ladbrokes Premiership season draws near.

The Jags finished in ninth place last term, 18 points ahead of relegated Dundee United, and the boss is hoping for a similar outcome from the new campaign.

Our aim first and foremost is that we stay in the league, that is our aim every year,'' Archibald said.We will try and stay in the league and build on it.''

Thistle beat local rivals Queen's Park 2-0 at Firhill to qualify for the last 16 of the Betfred Cup with a record of four wins from four in group E.

While some managers have been critical of new format, which sees teams compete in groups before entering the knockout stages, Archibald thinks it has provided good preparation for his players.

He added: It has been good. We are getting good crowds at every game which has been an added bonus.

There is an appetite for it. I think it is definitely better from a player's point of view to play in.''