Last updated on .From the section Scottish Championship

A first-half shot from Alan Forrest was touched in by Craig Moore

Ayr United moved up to third place in the Championship thanks to a first-half goal from Craig Moore at East End Park.

Somewhat against the run of play, the forward touched in a shot from Alan Forrest on 38 minutes.

Greg Kiltie and Kevin Nisbet were a threat for Dunfermline, while a Kyle Turner free-kick struck the post.

The visitors also hit the woodwork prior to the goal when a header from Andy Geggan smacked against the crossbar.

Dunfermline, who had won the two previous league meetings this season, gave teenage midfielder Ethan Ross a debut after his loan move from Aberdeen.

But he could not prevent the Fifers falling to a fourth successive defeat as they stay fifth in the table.

Ayr, who had lost five of their past seven matches, soaked up pressure and frustrated the hosts in the second half but threatened a late goal on the break when Ryan Scully saved from Stephen Kelly.

Dunfermline manager Stevie Crawford: "We lost at home last week and today, likewise, we were the better team in the first half. It was harsh on us to be one down at half-time but we didn't show enough creativity in the second half to break Ayr down."

Ayr United player-manager Mark Kerr: "We knew this could be a big three points if we could get them and if it had to be ugly, then so be it. We've played some great football at times and not got anything for it.

"Today we took a different approach; we were more reserved and sussed them out. When you are on a bad run and you go too gung-ho, you can get picked off."