Cowdenbeath 0-1 Airdrie

Feb 10 2008 Andy Lyons Reports

KENNY BLACK saluted his players for their determination to keep the pressure on leaders Ross County as they battled to a hard-fought win.

The Diamonds moved above Raith Rovers into second spot thanks to Stuart Noble's 60th minute strike, a powerful shot from 12 yards.

That came after Beath keeper David Hay saved a penalty from Allan Russell.

Delighted Black said: "We needed to roll our sleeves up and the lads responded brilliantly.

"As expected Cowdenbeath made life difficult and it was not the sort of game where stroking the ball about was going to pay dividends.

"It was so important to pick up all three points. Our aim is to keep winning and put on pressure at the top end of the table."

Beath boss Brian Welsh felt his side could have earned a draw with what he described as a good performance considering he had six key players out through injury and suspension.

He said: "We missed a sitter just before Airdrie scored and you can't do that. But we did well defensively and also created decent openings."