George Oakley celebrates after doubling Ayr's leadImage source, SNS
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George Oakley celebrates after doubling Ayr's lead

Ayr United cut the gap on Falkirk at the top of the Scottish Championship to just two points after a hard fought victory over Dunfermline Athletic at East End Park.

Dunfermline dominated the early stages, with Ayr goalkeeper Harry Stone making a excellent saves from Chris Hamilton and Ewan Otoo a deserved lead.

But Ayr started the second half stronger and took the lead on the hour when Jay Henderson knocked in after a George Oakley header came back off the crossbar.

And the victory was sealed when Oakley volleyed home his 11th goal of the campaign from a wonderful cross by the impressive Connor McLennan.

Dunfermline kept pushing, though, and substitute Taylor Sutherland had the ball in the net only for the flag to be raised for offside.

The defeat for the Fife side keeps them in second bottom place, while Ayr are now within touching distance of league leaders Falkirk as the race for the title hots up.