EAST Kilbride continued their march towards the Lowland League title with a comfortable 2-0 win over Edinburgh University.

Former Hearts striker Russell McLean continued his scoring spree since arriving at Kilby.

And Craig Howie also netted to maintain the seven point gap at the top.

Second-placed East Stirlingshire kept up the chase with a 3-0 over Whitehill Welfare at Ochilview.

David Grant and Kris Faulds were both on target with Charlie Denton also deflecting into his own net.

Selkirk eased any relegation fears with a 2-1 victory at Broadwood against Cumbernauld Colts – despite having two players sent off.

Ricky Miller and Phil Addison netted in the first half before red cards for both Addison and Unpha Korona reduced the visitors to nine players.

Manager Ian Fergus: “It was a hang on in the end but we showed plenty of character and deserved the victory.

“Every point is important and to take three away from home is fantastic.”

Bottom side Preston Athletic were beaten 3-1 by Vale of Leithen at Victoria Park.

Jason Stevens scored an early double for the hosts before Blair Atkinson smashed home a third in the second half.

Gavin Stevenson scored a late consolation from the penalty spot for struggling Preston.

Vale manager Chris Anderson said: “Today was all about winning as we had been on a poor run going into this one.

“We were slowly being dragged down into the relegation zone so it’s good to climb towards mid table.”

David Greenhill, Chris Townsley and Ross Allum scored as Spartans left Raydale Park with a 3-0 win over 10-man Gretna.

Daniel Armstrong was sent off early for the hosts.

Managerless Hawick Royal Albert were beaten 5-2 by Civil Service Strollers at Albert Park.

And a last-minute strike from Ross McEwan earned Stirling University the points against Gala Fairydean Rovers at Falkirk Stadium.