QUEENS GRAB A LIFELINE AT BROADWOOD

Lyle - set up McNiven goal

A second half header from David McNiven handed Clyde only their third home defeat this season and virtually ended their promotion challenge, but a late offside flag and an even later penalty decision also contributed to the result. Top scorer Ian Harty was the unlucky player on both occasions, particularly in the 87th minute when he appeared to be tripped by substitute Gary Wood.

Harty had missed the first decent chance of the afternoon after 15 minutes, but otherwise the visitors were by far the better side. McNiven's curling shot forced an acrobatic save from Bryn Halliwell and the home keeper was soon tested again, this time by Stephen Payne. Brian McColligan then celebrated his return from suspension with two long-range efforts which troubled Halliwell.

Full-back Tommy English was next to try his luck with an ambitious 40-yard free-kick which Halliwell had to watch closely. Fellow defender Eric Paton also went close with a cross-cum-shot from the right flank.

A left-foot drive from veteran Alex Burns had been Clyde's best moment in the first half, but they looked a different team after the break with Gary Bollan firing in a stinging free-kick which Richie Barnard managed to block. Barnard was beaten in the 54th minute after Jimmy Gibson latched on to a long ball and rounded the goalkeeper, but Gibson then hit the side netting when it seemed easier to score.

Queens were always dangerous with McNiven a constant threat, and he finally made the breakthrough with 21 minutes left as he nodded home Derek Lyle's cross at the back post.