Second Division: Ayr win keeps flickering hopes alive

Published on Sunday 13 March 2011 12:49

The return of wintry weather and Brechin's Scottish Cup heroics against St Johnstone saw the Second Division restricted to just two fixtures with Ayr United moving into third place, following their 1-0 win over Alloa.

The three-point haul allowed Ayr to keep the embers of a title push going as they have pulled to within 16 points of leaders Livingston, with three games in hand, and a do-or-die trip to West Lothian tomorrow night.

Ryan McCann's goal right on half-time was the difference between the sides, although the faltering visitors were left feeling aggrieved at not being awarded a late penalty. Ayr manager Brian Reid said: "We will travel to Livingston, who have a great home record, and see what happens."

The result leaves the future of Alloa manager Allan Maitland hanging in the balance after a run of eight defeats in ten game.

East Fife's New Bayview pitch passed a morning pitch inspection, but Forfar defender Jamie Bishop probably wished the game had been called off as he was dismissed after 13 minutes after a robust challenge on Steven Hislop.

The Fife side took full advantage with Hislop giving them a first-half lead when he built on good work from Marc McCulloch to curl home a shot on 33 minutes.

Jonathan Smart converted a Craig Johnstone corner to make it two as the game entered the last 15 minutes and Bobby Linn wrapped things up with just two minutes to go from close range.