McBookie Super League Premier Division
BLANTYRE VICTORIA 1
IRVINE VICTORIA 2
A BATTLING performance saw former basement side Vics climb into third bottom spot.
They secured a third victory of the season which gives them a slight lifeline in their bid to beat the drop.
However they know a huge effort is still needed to escape.
Blantyre began strongly and took the lead in 27 minutes when the home number five beat George Bonner in a challenge and headed the ball home at the near post.
In 40 minutes, Vics were denied what looked a stonewall penalty when Kevin Adam was hauled down inside the box. However the referee waved play on.
Just before the break the visitors came close when Adam sent a half volley over the bar.
The Westenders levelled in 64 minutes when Callum Davidson set up David Adams who slammed home a shot from just inside the box.
Twelve minutes later Stevie Wilson's side took the lead as substitute Eddie Ablohr blocked a miscued clearance from a Blantyre defender and rolled the ball into the net.
Blantyre pressed for the last 15 minutes but the visiting rearguard stood firm to clinch three important points.
IRVINE VICTORIA: Lamb; Young, Longair, Bonner, Hambleton, Craig, Mears, Davidson, Bolton, Adam, Adams. Subs: Ablohr, Condon, Scott.
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