Zak Rudden’s double gave Falkirk their first league points of the season in a hard-fought derby match.

The victory ensured the Bairns drew level on points with Alloa at the foot of the Championship, although they still have plenty work to do if they want to start climbing the table. Delighted Bairns boss Ray Mckinnon said: “This was an important game for us.

“We are really pleased with the performance from the team and they showed a willingness to dig in and get the points.”

Falkirk got off to a great start.

In the opening minutes, Rudden and Andy Irving tested Neil Parry in the Alloa goal.

However, the Wasps fought back and they, too, had chances, Liam Burt’s left-foot drive saved by the Bairns keeper before Kevin Cawley went close with a fierce shot from 22 yards out. Much of the action was centred around the Falkirk penalty box but from a breakaway the Bairns took the lead. Rudden was on hand to send a glancing header past Parry.

Minutes later the same player could have doubled the visitors’ lead.

Seeing the keeper off his line, Rudden delicately lobbed the ball over his head, only for the ball to be cleared away by Sam Roscoe.

Zak Rudden put the game beyond the home side’s reach when he was on hand to tap home from close range after a cross from Lithuanian international Deimantus Petravicius.

Alloa continued to press for a goal but to no avail as Falkirk held on. Wasps manager Jim Goodwin was disappointed with the result.

He was adamant the home side should have taken something from the game.

The Wasps boss said: “We are very frustrated with the result today.

“We started well, then Falkirk scored at their first attempt.

“Right now we are not playing well and need to work on that.

“This was a massive game for us. Losing as we did was disappointing but we need to get things back together and move on.”