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.