Second Division: Ayr blow chance to go top after conceding two

Published on Sunday 23 January 2011 13:36

With leaders Livingston idle because of a frozen surface in West Lothian, Ayr United had the chance to complete a great week for the club by moving to the top of the table by seeing off Peterhead, however Brian Reid's side were brought back down to earth when the Blue Toon hit back twice in the second half to force a 2-2 draw.

Ayr Scottish Cup hero Mark Roberts - whose goal knocked out Hibs - netted a penalty in 12 minutes after Andy Rodgers had been fouled by Scott Ross. It looked like Ayr's ascension to the top of the tree was complete when Roberts repeated his feat 17 minutes later, the striker netting from the spot this time after Stuart Smith had tripped Jonathan Tiffoney.

The Balmoor side, beaten comprehensively 6-1 by St Mirren in their cup tie in midweek, rallied and got back into the game when Graeme Sharp pulled a goal back on 54 minutes with a great drive. David Ross grabbed a leveller nine minutes later when he converted at the back post.

In the only other game Stenhousemuir's improvement under new boss David Irons continued, as they defeated Airdrie United 1-0 at Ochilview.

The Warriors sprung a surprise by fielding former Dundee player Eric Paton as a trialist, however Stevie Murray was the home hero when he volleyed home the winner from a Grant Plenderleith cross with just six minutes remaining.

Irons said: "Eric was doing us a favour by playing and unfortunately we will not be able to sign him. It took us a while to get the goal but it was deserved and worth waiting for."