ST MIRREN crashed to a 2-1 defeat away to Dumbarton as the Sons secured their Championship safety.

The Buddies had taken the lead in the ninth minute through Calum Gallagher who fired a superb volley into the bottom corner from the edge of the box.

But an unfortunate own goal by Keith Watson and a wonder strike from Garry Fleming handed the eighth-placed side the three points.

Saints had more than enough chances to take something from the game – Lawrence Shankland went closest with an effort which rattled the underside of the bar – and will be disappointed not to have any reward for their efforts.

That result, coupled with Livingston's 3-1 loss at Queen of the South, ensures St Mirren and Dumbarton will meet in the league again next campaign as the Sons now sit eight points clear of the West Lothian outfit who remain in ninth with just two games to go for both sides.

The men from Paisley will now be keen to finish the season on a high with a positive result when they host champions Rangers on the final day of the season on Sunday.