First home win for Edinburgh City gives renewed optimism

An exhilarating 4-3 victory over Dumbarton, coupled with the Binos 3-2 defeat at Stranraer, will provide the Citizens with renewed confidence they can start to climb the table.

Robbie Mahon netted a brace for Edinburgh City. Picture: Tommy Lee

A Robbie Mahon brace, and strikes from Bradley Barrett and Innes Lawson, did have the hosts 4-1 up at one point at Meadowbank but a late rally from the Sons ensured a nervy finish.

Manager Michael McIndoe said afterwards: "For 50 minutes we were exceptional. Ruthless, clinical - we could have been 5-0 up. It's what we've been asking them, to start putting these chances away because we are creating a lot. We had to bring off three players, not because of bad injuries, but the momentum swung in the game.

"I think we showed a little lack of leadership in the second half and I've told the players that. But overall we've got to be pleased because for 50 minutes we were exceptional. It was a must win but the players can handle that pressure. They're used to it because I do challenge them a lot."

Elsewhere, Spartans were knocked off the top following a 1-1 draw at Annan.

East Kilbride's win over Forfar sees Kilby leapfrog Dougie Samuel's men, although that lead is just a single point.

James Craigen was on target for Spartans at Galabank.

Meanwhile, Bonnyrigg Rose's 2-1 win at Linlithgow Rose means they are now just a point adrift of Lowland League leaders Clydebank.

Boss Jonny Stewart said: "It's a massive three points because it's a tough place to come. Linlithgow are a really good side and they made it difficult for us, especially first half. I didn't think we were great but that's probably down to the way they played.

"The second half was much better but it was a really tight game, two good sides going at it. We were down to the bare bones so massive credit to the boys. We've done really well and gave ourselves a chance as we started the season poorly and were 12 or 13 points behind Clydebank at one stage."