A SECOND-HALF Nathan Austin double stretched Kelty’s lead at the top of the Lowland League to five points.

But Barry Ferguson’s team had to come from behind to beat Stirling University 2-1 at New Dundas Park.

With second-placed Bonnyrigg Rose’s game being postponed, the victory gives Hearts daylight in the title chase.

Ferguson said: “Stirling University are a much better team than their league position suggests and that is two games we’ve had against them that we’ve just managed to win.

“Because we’re at the top every team is coming here looking to cause an upset.

“I’m pleased with the three points but I know we can play better.”

Jason Jarvis had scored the Students' opener.

Thomas Collins kept BSC Glasgow in the title race with the only goal of the game against Spartans at the Indordrill Stadium.

A brace from Brad Rixon moved Vale of Leithen off the foot of the table for the first time this season.

The 24-year-old scored twice in the first half during the 3-1 win over Gala Fairydean Rovers at Netherdale.

Rixon said: “I’ve not been scoring enough so I’ll take a lot of confidence from the two today.

“Hopefully we can build on the win and start to move away from relegation.”

Liall Smith also scored for Vale with Scott Taylor McKenzie grabbing a late consolation for the home team.

Gretna picked up their first win under returning manager Rowan Alexander.

Benjamin Luissint scored the only goal in the 1-0 victory over Cumbernauld Colts at Broadwood.

Edinburgh University dropped to bottom after going down 3-0 against East Stirlingshire at Peffermill.

Jamie Dishington, Nicky Low and Sean Brown all scored for the visitors.

Irish striker Ruari Patoin netted twice as East Kilbride continued to climb the table with a 3-1 win over Dalbeattie Star.

Craig Malcolm also scored for the home team with Calvin Cowie grabbing Star’s consolation.

Yaw Osei scored as Berwick Rangers beat Caledonian Braves 1-0 at Shiefield Park.