Partick Thistle 1-0 Airdrie: Erskine’s volley sees Jags through

However, they were made to work hard by rock-bottom Airdrie who came to Firhill to frustrate – and very nearly succeeded.

Erskine, whose stunning volley proved the difference, said: “That’s my best goal of the season by a mile – I don’t know if I’ll ever score a better one. I’m just glad it won us the game because Airdrie made it hard but at this stage of the season it doesn’t matter if you win 1-0 or 10-0.”

Chances were at a premium as a packed Diamonds defence stuck doggedly to their task.

Ross Forbes curled a 20-yard free kick inches wide for Thistle but Gregor Buchanan went just as close for Airdrie when his shot was blocked by the out-rushing Scott Fox. Thistle responded with a solo effort from Erskine who skipped through the centre of the Diamonds defence only to pull his 18-yard shot narrowly wide.

Airdrie had penalty claims when Bain went down in the box but the referee saw no infringement.

The Jags continued to search for the breakthrough on the restart and it almost came when Kris Doolan fastened on to Aaron Sinclair’s cross, swivelled and saw hit shot blocked by Robbie Thomson’s trailing leg. Doolan then headed over from close range before Thomson saved superbly from Erskine as the Jags’ frustrations intensified.

However, the goal finally came thanks to a moment of magic from Erskine who met a clearance out of the Airdrie box  with a superb volley that crashed in off the junction of post and crossbar.

Airdrie boss Jimmy Boyle admitted: “It’s hard to take but if you’re going to lose you don’t mind losing to a goal like that.”