Stirling Albion 1 : 1 Dunfermline - Dunfermline's title hopes dented by 10-man Stirling

Bottom of the table Stirling held high-flying Dunfermline to a 1-1 draw despite playing the entire second with only 10 men.

Dunfermline, who have now lost further ground on First Division leaders Raith following their late win over second-bottom Cowdenbeath, took the lead after only five minutes.

Joe Cardle found Andy Kirk and he beat Scott Christie, who was otherwise superb, with a right-footed effort into the bottom corner from six yards.

Steven McDougall brought a good save out of Christie while Calum Woods, Graham Bayne and then Kirk all missed chances to double the visitors` lead.

And they were made to pay in the 32nd minute as Ryan Borris levelled matters with a great strike from 25 yards.

Stirling defender Michael Boyle was then given his marching orders just before half-time for violent conduct.

Nevertheless, despite the numerical advantage, Dunfermline could not find a winner and were forced to settle for a point.