Queen of the South moved above opponents Morton and into fourth place in the Division One table after claiming a moarle boosting home win.
Colin McMenamin unleashed an unstoppable 25-yard shot that flew into the net to put Queens ahead.
And by the 26th minute, the hosts had struck again, substitute Willie McLaren firing home from the edge of the box beating the unfortunate Cuthbert at his near post.
Queens had several chances to add to their tally but the visitors held out thanks to fine saves by Cuthbert in goal.
Morton came more into the game during the second period but it was Queens that made the chances to kill the game off with McMenamin mssing from point blank range and Holmes hitting the barwith a header.
The Doonahamer's defence with Reid and Lilley outstanding took everything that Morton could throw at them.
Morton's misery was complete in the 83rd minute when Sean Fitzharris was sent off for serious foul play as Queens held on for a deserved win.
Queen's Man of the Match - Craig Reid - An absolute rock at the back.