Airdrie will have to contest a play-off to retain their First Division status after a 1-0 defeat to Dunfermline saw them finish the campaign in ninth.

The result means Kenny Black's side avoided relegation after Ayr suffered defeat to finish bottom but they will battle it out with Alloa, Cowdenbeath and Brechin for a place in the second tier.

Dunfermline - who had nothing to play for - were the better side and created the best chances with Joe Cardle hitting the post.

Cardle was also denied by Lee Hollis as the away side dominated, with David Graham spurning a glorious chance from close range.

The breakthrough came after 37 minutes when Cardle combined with Nick Phinn to slot home from six yards.

United saw a lot of the ball but offered little attacking threat as they were consigned to a nervy wait over their future.