MONTROSE missed the point after conceding a late goal.
Jim Weir's 10 men were six minutes from booking a playoff spot when Chris Geddes struck to delay the party.
Weir said: "Our defending was shaky and their keeper made terrific saves. We need a point and have work to do."
Montrose took the lead in six minutes when Steven Doris was flattened by Neil Stephen and John Baird scored from the spot.
Forfar levelled in 42 when a Chris Anton corner was bundled in by John Fraser.
After 55 minutes Baird crossed for Doris to head home Montrose's second.
Chris Heggarty was sent off for a second booking 17 minutes from time and Forfar levelled through Geddes.