Airdrieonians willl play in the Scottish Championship again next season after a goalless home draw gave them a 2-1 aggregate victory over Cove Rangers in the play-off final.

Goals from Dylan MacDonald and Lewis Strapp in the first leg at Balmoral Stadium ended up being enough for Rhys McCabe's side, as Cove failed to find a way through their defence in Airdire.

With Manchester United and Aberdeen legend Sir Alex Ferguson watching on, Paul Hartley had five men up front by the end as Cove desperately tried to force extra time, but they came up short when trying to fashion a gilt-edged chance.

It means Airdrieonians, who were set to be relegated until Hamilton's points deduction sent them to the third tier, have gratefully accepted their second chance after finishing ninth in the Championship.

Cove managed to see off fellow League 1 side Queen of the South in the semi-finals, but will play in the third tier again next season after stumbling at the final hurdle.

Airdrieonians manager Rhys McCabe: "Reflecting on the season, we started poorly and had some ups but a lot of downs this year. To stay in the Championship is huge.

"We weren't at our best over the two legs. But we showed another side, a bit of steel to make sure we got that clean sheet. I'm delighted to stay in the Championship.

"We can play a lot better. The emotion, the heat play their part. But when it comes down to these games it's all about getting the job done."