ALEX NEIL today vowed to improve his behaviour having returned from another ban.

The Hamilton Accies captain was in action last Saturday as Billy Reid's side recorded a 2-0 William Hill Scottish Cup win over Irn-Bru First Division rivals Dunfermline at East End Park.

Neil has picked up three red cards this season, depriving manager Reid of one of his most experienced stars for several matches.

Now the midfielder is keen to set an example for Accies' burgeoning young talents.

He said: "I was disappointed when I was sent off (against Cowdenbeath) and a lot has been made about the way I conduct myself. It has to improve.

"But I didn't get booked last Saturday, which was pleasing.

"Now I am trying to conduct myself a bit better but I am a wholehearted player and don't think anyone can question my intentions, but I understand you can't be getting sent off.

"I need to try and temper it a bit.

"I thought we were great on Saturday and moved the ball well.

"We had good chances in the first half and even better chances in the second half which we took.

"We have a lot of young boys and there are going to be ups and downs.

"One time they are great, the next maybe not so good. It is a learning curve for them.

"They showed on Saturday the quality they have.

"To get that week in week out from a kid is rare. You don't get too many kids like that so we are going to have to persevere with them. But they have shown they are more than capable of doing it."