Marc Fitzpatrick scored the winning goal as Airdrieonians defeated Ayr United 1-0 in Scottish League One this evening.
Ayr United had the first effort on goal in the fourth minute, but Craig Murray's long-range shot was saved by Andrew McNeil.
Scott Fraser headed over from a corner before Adam Blakeman's shot was saved at the other end.
Blakeman, playing his sixth game for Ayr United, received his marching orders in the 21st minute for a dangerous tackle.
The red card did not deter Ayr from attacking though, as Jon Paul McGovern, twice, and Jordan Preston both had shots on net.
Jordan Morton could have given Airdrieonians a half-time lead, but missed two chances in stoppage time.
Airdrieonians took the lead shortly after the restart, with Marc Fitzpatrick directing the ball into the top-right corner of the net.
Bryan Gilfillan tried to double the lead immediately but his shot was saved by David Hutton.
McGovern's shot from inside the six-yard box was saved on the hour mark.
Former Celtic player Craig Beattie, now playing for Ayr United, directed the ball narrowly past the left post with 25 minutes remaining.
Robbie Crawford and Michael Donald pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, but Airdrieonians held on to move to fifth in the Scottish League One table.
Jonathan McIntosh
