MORTON boss Jim McInally today hailed his side's 2-1 victory over Peterhead as a pivotal three points in the title run in.

Second-half goals from Jamie Stevenson and Peter Weatherson helped maintain the Ton's seven- point lead over second- placed Stirling who routed Alloa 4-0 at Forthbank.

A delighted Macca said: "This was a big win for us as there were definite signs of nerves before this game in the dressing room. In that respect, it was vital we steadied the ship and delivered a positive result and three points.

"In fact, we showed exactly the type of character that will be required over the remaining weeks."

In Division Three Queen's Park thrashed Albion Rovers 5-0 at Hampden to stay in second place just three points behind leaders Berwick.

David Weatherston, Stuart Kettlewell, Alan Trouten and a Mark Ferry double dumped Rovers.

And delighted Spiders' boss Billy Stark has admitted that a play-off spot is now the minimum requirement for his players.

He said: "Some of our passing was terrific and the quality of our goals was first class. We are now in a position where the play- offs are our minimum requirement, although our approach must be one game at a time."

Rovers boss Jim Chapman groaned: "We played well early on and created some decent chances, but how Queens punished us for passing up on them.

"All credit must go to Queens.

"They were a joy to watch at times and this was a sore one for us to take, but we must regroup and put it behind us."

Elsewhere, Dumbarton lost out 2-1 to Berwick at the Strathclyde Homes Stadium as their promotion hopes took a knock.

Sons boss Gerry McCabe said: "We're all in this together and the players must keep their heads up and respond to this.

"But there is no doubt this was a very bad result for us in a game we deserved at least a point from."