More injuries - to McGuire this time saw a half-fit Mclaughlin in the starting lineup with places also for Nimmo and Megginson. A decent away following was apparent among the 840 fans on a fine afternoon under the Rock
Arbroath gave their hopes of avoiding relegation a huge boost as they beat Dumbarton 2-0 to move level on points with eighth-placed Stenhousemuir.
Both sides had good chances to take the lead in the first 20 minutes, Arbroath's Robert Ross heading straight at goalkeeper Michael White when well placed and Dumbarton's Martin McNiff missing the target from close range.
The visitors did finally break the deadlock six minutes before the break when James Redman found the bottom corner from just outside the penalty area.
They then doubled their lead when on-loan Aberdeen striker Mitchell Megginson slotted home from Ian Nimmo's corner after 49 minutes.
Dumbarton could have pulled a goal back just after the hour mark but Derek Carcary headed straight at Arbroath stopper Darren Hill. All our subs came on in the last halfhour - Gibson, McLean and McIlravey