Airdrie opened their SPFL League One campaign with a six-goal thriller at Station Park on Saturday.

Lewis Coult's second goal of the season earned the Diamonds a point in a game in which they twice came from behind.

Airdrie made one change to the side that beat Stenhousemuir 4-3 in the first round of the League Cup. Suspension ruled out Chris O'Neil so ex-Kilmarnock defender Garry Hay started as a trialist.

The Diamonds were playing their first league game as 'Onians for the first time since May 2002 but fell behind in the 17th minute.

Forfar midfielder Gavin Malin started and finished an excellent move through midfield after exchanging passes with James Dale.

But Jimmy Boyle's men equalised in the 32nd minute. Coult held the ball up well and fed David Sinclair who played in Willie McLaren.

The winger then returned the ball to former Cowdenbeath striker Coult whose cross was headed into the corner of the net by Lister.

It was 2-1 early in the second half. Goalscorer Lister turned provider with his threaded ball through setting free McLaren who netted his second goal of the campaign so far.

However, Forfar turned the match on its head with two goals from substitute Paul McManus, who came on for the injured Gavin Swankie at the interval.

Coult salvaged a point for Airdrie, though. Loons keeper Darren Hill and defender Neil McCabe failed to deal with a long ball forward allowing the 25-year-old to pounce.

Colin Paterson at Station Park.

Photographs © Christopher Coutts/Forfar Athletic. Click to view full size.