Airdrieonians remain three points clear of the League One relegation zone after a crushing win over 10-man Forfar.

Two goals in the space of five minutes from Gregor Buchanan and Jamie Bain put the Diamonds in control at New Broomfield on Saturday.

Mark Baxter's own goal increased Airdrie's advantage before Dale Hilson reduced the deficit for the Loons, who had Iain Campbell sent-off, but second-half strikes by Jim Lister and Liam Watt ended hopes of a fightback.

It's now one defeat in 10 games for the rejuvenated Diamonds, now seven points ahead of rock-bottom Arbroath, who will be hoping to maintain their fine run of form at Stranraer next weekend.

Manager Gary Bollan made one change to the team which started the vital 1-0 victory at Arbroath with youngster Nicky Cadden replacing the suspended Caolan McAleer.

The Loons were unbeaten in four games and made two changes to the side that beat Stranraer 1-0. Darren Hill was preferred to Rab Douglas in goal while Neil McCabe came in for Gavin Swankie.

But the visitors were forced into an early switch when Darren Dods replaced the injured Marvin Andrews seconds before Lister fired a low effort just wide.

And Airdrie didn't have long to wait before taking the lead. In the 14th minute, Cadden sent over a corner to the back post which was turned home by Buchanan.

A good start became a great one for Bollan's side five minutes later thanks to Bain whose first goal of the season was a 25-yard rocket which flew high into the net.

Could things get any better? In the 22nd minute they did. Lister attempted a pass to Keigan Parker but Loons full-back Baxter slid in and inadvertently diverted the ball into his own net off the post.

This day was as glorious for Airdrie as it was awful for Forfar who were reduced to 10 men in the 34th minute. Campbell's challenge on Bain in the middle of the park was high with referee Des Roache reaching for the red card.

However, the Loons pulled a goal back as half-time approached when on-loan Dundee United forward Dale Hilson's superb run took him past Bain and his low strike resulted in his 10th goal of the season.

Any hopes the Angus outfit had of recovering were dashed in the 51st minute, though, with the Diamonds restoring their three-goal cushion when Lister's header from a Paddy Boyle cross deflected into the corner of the net.

And a fine afternoon's work was rounded off eight minutes from the end when Craig Barr's through ball found Watt who took the ball round Hill and slotted home.

Colin Paterson at New Broomfield.

Photographs © Robert Dalzell. Click to view full size.