With Darvel one of three teams chasing the two promotion places, and their rivals drawing, the Valley side kept their promotion dreams alive with a convincing victory over a young Muirkirk side .

The game was only five minutes old when a free kick was swung across the face of the goal and defender Calum Walsh saw his glancing header nestle in the Muirkirk net.

The rest of the first half was as one sided an affair as has been seen at Recreation Park all season and it was incomprehensible that the home side failed to capitalise on their superiority.

Wave after wave of attacks laid siege on the Muirkirk goal, but neither of the clubs top scorers , Vernon and Ryan, could add to Walsh's opener.

With Darvel keeper David Markey taking no part in the proceedings, there was a real concern that the game could not continue to be as one-sided, and that Muirkirk would eventually find a scoring opportunity to level a game that should have been over as a contest.

Although the second forty five minutes saw Muirkirk enjoy more possession, the Vale remained on top, and after Kenny Parris won a header in the six yard box, Greg Vernon was on hand to slip the loose ball between the keeper and the post, and in so doing, settle the home supports nerves.

After a good run by Jordan Ryan , a loose ball in the box looked certain to be cleared : that was before Kenny Parris showed his strength and courage to win a ball he was never entitled to, and the rebound was met by Murray Johnston to seal the points.

With the clock ticking down, Muirkirk were awarded a penalty, which Veteran player/coach Gary Russell, who had put in a fine display, dispatched with some style.

Next week Darvel travel to Girvan for what is a game they must win in order to keep their promotion dreams alive.

Thanks to Brownings the Bakers for their significant sponsorship.