MONTROSE crossed the play-off line with more of a whimper than a roar on Saturday thanks to their goalless draw at Dumbarton and defeats for closest challengers Arbroath and Elgin.
Gable Endies' goalkeeper Mark Peat did well throughout, denying Grant Evans, Andy Geggan, Craig Potter and Fergus Tiernan during the game.
Montrose manager Jim Weir said: "I thought the game was finely balanced. Both teams struggled to create cha
nces."
A solitary goal from experienced East Stirling midfielder David Nicholls ten minutes from the break won the match at Arbroath.
Stranraer maintained their good run, coming back from a goal down to halt the progress of Elgin. Gregory Tade had given the visitors the lead, but Zander Sutherland struck on either side of the break to put Elgin ahead. Stranraer substitute Jamie Cochrane equalised with seven minutes to go and Andy Gibson struck the winner for the visitors four minutes later.
Forfar were beaten 4-1 at home by Albion Rovers after Willie Martin grabbed a hat-trick. Martin struck twice in the first half and Bobby Barr hit a third. Barry Donnachie was sent off for the home side and Martin Grehan pulled one back before Martin claimed the match ball with his third on 56 minutes.
Champions East Fife earned a 1-0 victory at Stenhousemuir, who had beaten the Fifers in their last two meetings.
Ryan Blackadder won the game with a low shot three minutes from the break. Stenny tried to hit back in the second half and Ross Hamilton had a good chance but their cause was hampered by the needless sending off of Scott Dalziel.
The full article contains 282 words and appears in The Scotsman newspaper.
