CHRIS Templeman displayed why East Fife lured him from Morton by playing an inspirational role in a 3-0 win over bottom-of-the-table Forfar on his debut.
With an 18-point lead over their nearest challengers, manager Dave Baikie's side now look certain to be in the Second Division next season.
He said: "Chris did not score but he had some great touches and I am sure he will do well. We are trying
to put a team together not just to try and win the title but with one eye on next season."
The game was over after the first 24 minutes as Bobby Linn, Kevin Davison and Kevin Fotheringham scored. But Baikie added: "I was disappointed with our second-half performance."
Stenhousemuir keeper John Hillcoat was outstanding on his comeback after a lengthy injury absence, in a 0-0 draw with Montrose, with a superb save from Stephen Black catching the eye. "I am delighted to get back into the team and get a clean sheet but I thought our defence was different class," said Hillcoat. However, that defence looks likely to be weakened as Gordon Lennon is poised to sign for Dumbarton at the end of his loan period.
Stranraer are still lying handily in the play-off zone after their keeper Scott Black defied Dumbarton in their 2-0 win, with Gregory Tade and Iain Cashmore on target.
Arbroath enjoyed their first home league win since September, with Paul Watson and Barry Sellars scoring in their 2-0 win over Elgin City. "We could have scored more but I am happy with the win," said Arbroath manager John McGlashan.
East Stirling go into their delayed Scottish Cup tie against Rangers on Wednesday on the back of a frustrating 2-2 draw at Albion Rovers. Craig Donaldson and Mark McKenzie looked to have given the visitors victory after they overcame Rod Hunter's early opener, but James McKenzie equalised with 11 minutes remaining.
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