Gemmill`s strike ensures United edge out Rovers
Airdrie advanced to the second round of the Co-operative Insurance Cup as Scott Gemmill struck in a 1-0 win at Albion Rovers.
The hosts created the majority of the chances, especially in the first half, with John Gemmell and James Gilmartin forcing Mark Ridgers into early saves before Alan Reid sent a 20-yard shot narrowly wide.
Gemmell threatened again on the hour mark but his shot also missed the target.
It was against the run of play when Gemmill turned the ball into the net from close range after 67 minutes.
But it looked like Albion would find a way back into the game when Gary Muir was sent off for a second bookable offence six minutes later.
Paul McLeod soon tested Ridgers again with a volley but Albion were unable to capitalise on their numerical advantage, and were reduced to 10 men themselves after 81 minutes when Stevie Canning was also shown his second yellow card of the game.