Forfar Athletic have taken advantage of a Stranraer slip-up to close the gap at the top of Scottish League One.
The league leaders managed just three attempts in their 1-1 draw at Airdrieonians, while Forfar saw off Stirling Albion.
It looked like Stranraer had stolen the points late on when Jon McShane headed them ahead after 87 minutes, but Jim Lister equalised just 90 seconds later.
Forfar, who were recently beaten by Stranraer, took the lead in the 38th minute when Gavin Malin converted Gavin Swankie's low cross.
Chris Smith's red card for a dangerous tackle early in the second half made Stirling's job even harder, and they couldn't salvage a point as Forfar saw the game out.
In the league's other tie, Paul McMullan's low drive gave Stenhousemuir the lead against Ayr United, before Alan Forrest's long-range secured Ayr a point.
The game between Brechin City and Peterhead was postponed due to a frozen pitch.
Results: Airdrieonians 1-1 Stranraer, Stenhousemuir 1-1 Ayr United, Stirling Albion 0-1 Forfar Athletic.
Charlie Bennett
