Kirk grabs late winner as Pars move clear of Morton

Published on Wednesday 6 May 2009 00:08

DUNFERMLINE Athletic finally found a cure for their home ills to virtually claim third place in the First Division.

Only the Pars' fifth victory in Fife was achieved by a late Andy Kirk counter to brighten an inconsistent campaign. It was the club's first league win at home in 2009, moving them three points clear of Morton with a game remaining.

On a damp night with little at stake, it was testament to the players that a hard-fought, lively tussle unfolded. Less than two minutes had elapsed when visiting keeper Kevin Cuthbert expertly clawed away a Graham Bayne strike after his defence failed to deal with a high ball. Morton offered a swift riposte, Ryan McGuffie heading over from a Kevin Finlayson centre before the latter also flashed past.

The Fifers, already beset by injury, suffered another blow when captain Scott Wilson trooped off with a knee problem, meaning the Australia-bound defender may have made his farewell appearance for the club.

If injury appeared a common theme – kick-off was delayed 15 minutes after a linesman succumbed to a calf knock – the Pars refused to wallow. Substitute Rory Loy was only denied the breakthrough by Cuthbert's fingertips, before Nicky Phinn twice went close as the hosts dominated.

Stewart Greacen's powerful header just over offered Morton some hope after the break, but Dunfermline finally made the breakthrough on 56 minutes. David Graham's shot was spilled by Cuthbert and Loy was on hand to net to put the East End Park club in front. Typically, though, the Pars soon switched off, allowing Carlo Monti to level with a sweet 22-yard drive.

Iain Russell glanced just past for Morton late on, but Pars top scorer Kirk swept home off the underside of the bar to snatch it.

Dunfermline: Gallacher, Ross, Wilson (Loy 25), Phinn, Muirhead, McCann, David Graham, Glass, Bayne, Kirk, Burke. Subs not used: Willis, McBride, Lee Graham, Paterson.

Morton: Cuthbert, McManus, Walker, McGuffie (Paartalu 90), Greacen, Masterton, Finlayson, Monti, Weatherson (Wake 79), Russell, McAlister. Subs not used: Grady, Smith, McWilliams.

Attendance: 1,438. Referee: B Winter.