Inverness close in on promotion to Scottish Championship

Inverness took a big step towards automatic promotion from William Hill League One thanks to a 1-0 victory over bottom club Kelty Hearts.

Alex Ferguson’s 61st-minute own goal was the difference at the Sarens PSG Stadium as Caley Thistle moved four points clear at the top of table with only two more games to go.

Second-placed Stenhousemuir began the day just a point behind the leaders but slipped further adrift after falling to a 2-0 loss away to Cove Rangers.

Adam Emslie gave the hosts a 10th-minute lead before Mitch Megginson doubled the advantage to leave Stenny facing the prospect of the play-offs.

Third-placed Alloa sealed a play-off spot after goals either side of half-time from Calum Waters and Luke Donnelly earned a 2-0 success over East Fife.

Queen of the South booked their place in the play-offs courtesy of an 88th-minute equaliser from Matty Douglas in a 1-1 draw at Peterhead. The late leveller kept the Doonhamers seven points clear of their opponents.

Second-bottom Hamilton pulled five points clear of Kelty Hearts in the relegation battle by making it back-to-back wins with a 2-0 victory at Montrose.

Alexander Hutton wrapped up victory for the Accies nine minutes from time following Kyle MacDonald’s sixth-minute opener.

In League Two, Joao Balde’s double helped East Kilbride retain top spot with a 4-0 thrashing of bottom club Edinburgh.

Connor Young and John Robertson were also on target for Mick Kennedy’s side.

The Spartans remain a point behind in second spot after goals from Jordan Tapping and Marc McNulty secured a 2-0 success at Annan.

Scott Williamson struck twice as third-placed Clyde guaranteed a play-off spot by beating Dumbarton 2-0.

Forfar climbed above opponents Stranraer and into the final play-off place after Jake Sutherland’s second-half goal earned a 1-0 victory at Stair Park.

Elgin stay sixth – below Stranraer on goal difference – following an entertaining 2-2 draw at Stirling.

Goals from Ryan Sargent and Kane Hester turned the contest in the visitors’ favour after Mark Russell’s opener before Albion levelled through Dylan Wells.