A blunder by Pars goalkeeper Chris Smith opened the door for Queens as the league leaders crash to defeat in a game they otherwise dominated especially in the first half..
Dunfermline wasted no time in getting into their stride in 19 minutes when Pat Clarke picked up a loose ball on the left, turned on to his right foot, and sent a thunderous curling drive crashing back off the far post from 25 yards.
Queen's offered little before taking the lead in 52 minutes in the most bizarre circumstances. Andy Dowie appeared under no pressure as he passed the ball back from the left, just outside his area, but the ball somehow went between goalkeeper Smith's legs and trickled over the line.
Queen sensed victory and might have been two up in 61 minutes when Willie McLaren headed home a Bob Harris free-kick, but it was ruled offside. Sixty seconds later there was no reprieve. McLaren left Smith embarrassed again when he lobbed the keeper from 35 yards for a sensational second.
Queen's had Paul Burns sent off for a second yellow as the Pars pressed in vain in the closing minutes.
Queen of the South manager Kenny Brannigan:
"It was hard-fought and we struggled with the conditions, especially in the first half, but we took control and I thought it was a deserved victory.
"It was a goalkeeping error that let us into it but I felt Willie McLaren put pressure on him to force him into the error. The second goal was something special."
Dunfermline Athletic manager Jim McIntyre:
"I had warned the players before not to make mistakes. But we made two and we've been punished.
"We won't blame individuals as they have been magnificent for us this season.
"We didn't give ourselves long enough to come back from the first goal when we conceded the second but you have to say it was a fabulous finish from Willie McLaren."
A welcome if fortunate victory for Queens which keeps them in touch with the leaders.
Queens Man of the Match - Derek Lilley - Never put a foot wrong and is at last regaining his old form.
Images courtesy of www.qosfc.com