North End take step to title with narrow victory

North End took another step towards the title with a 3-2 win at home to East Craigie.

Ryan Rigden put the league leaders in front on 33 minutes, but Jon Rosscraig levelled shortly before the break.

Goals from Barrie Pullar and Nathan Scott gave the Dokens a two-goal cushion, but a Nik Mann counter made it a nervy finish before Ross Lunan’s side could claim a 12th consecutive victory.

Meanwhile, in the rearranged top of the table clash, Luncarty and Violet drew 2-2.

Calum Kirk gave the Bleachers the lead after 45 seconds.

The Pansies levelled on 35 minutes through Steve Harris.

Cammy Blair put the visitors ahead 10 minutes after the restart.

However, Sean Fergus equalised after 65 minutes.

Kinnoull won the Perthshire derby courtesy of the only goal of the game in stormy conditions at Scone. But for fine saves by both keepers the scoreline wouldn’t have been blank at the break.

Two minutes after the restart Greg Whyte cracked a free-kick into the top corner for what would prove to be the winner.

Although Thistle were reduced to 10 men when Sean Whitworth was redcarded they had much the better of the exchanges.

Only a brilliant save by Kinnoull’s trialist keeper near the end denied Fraser Morrison an equaliser.

In the only other game to beat the weather, Lochee Harp and Arbroath Vics drew at Downfield Park.

Ryan Robb salvaged a point for Vics. Ryan Mckillen gave Harp the lead, but almost immediately Robb equalised from a penalty.

The hosts finished the game with 10 men after Mark Kelly was sent off two minutes from time after picking up a second caution.