The Diamonds dazzled League Champions Dunfermline Athletic with a scintilliating first half display.

Goals from Marc Fitzpatrick, Dylan Mackin and Jim Lister provided the home side with a lead that the visitors never came close to pegging back.

Airdrie started on the front foot from the kick off and only took a couple of minutes to open the scoring.

Nicky Cadden’s corner from the right was met by Marc Fitzpatrick, who powerfully headed it into the net.

The surprise was that it took the Diamonds a further 18 minutes to add to their lead as they pressed their opponents back.

A long ball forward from deep picked out Dylan Mackin on the edge of the box and he showed a great touch to control the ball and make space for himself 20 yards out. Once he had the goal in his sights he drilled the ball low to Sean Murdoch’s right post into the net.

It gave Airdrie an advantage that enabled them to control the rest of the game.

In 27 minutes they had added a third goal and it looked game over for Dunfermline.

Another fine Cadden cross into the box was tailor made for Jim Lister who rose to head past Murdoch, who stood motionless as the ball flew into the left corner of the net.

After the break the visitors created a few chances that they were unable to convert.

Ryan Wallace had an effort inside the box well saved by Neil Parry in 54 minutes, while Shaun Rooney fired wide of the target five minutes later.

Parry then saved from substitute Conor Duthie in 76 minutes.

Kieran MacDonald had a wonderful opportunity to add a fourth in 78 minutes when a terrific run forward and pass to Mackin, saw the striker backheel the ball into his path in front of goal but he fired wide of the goal.

Wallace had another chance to get on the score sheet in 82 minutes but Parry again saved the shot.

In the end a comprehensive win that provides a three way battle for the final play off place next week.

John O'Brien at New Broomfield.

Photographs © Robert Dalzell. Click to view full-size.