Dumbarton manager Stevie Farrell praised the performance of his players as they picked up a 1-0 win over Clyde to secure their spot in the promotion play-offs.

A second-half free-kick from James Hilton was enough at the Rock as East Fife’s 4-1 defeat to Bonnyrigg Rose ensured Sons spot in top four with three games to go.

In a game that was blown into chaos due to the windy conditions, the hosts had to stand firm throughout the afternoon but stood tall remarkably well in a defence marshalled by Mark Durnan and Sean Crighton.

The result makes it five games without defeat for Sons and was their fourth clean sheet in a row as they look to be returning to their best at a crucial time of the season.

Faz admits his troops had to win ugly on Saturday but believes being able to grind out three points in difficult conditions is a good string to their bow as he also hailed match winner ‘Jinky’ for his moment of magic.

Speaking post match, he said: “Getting three points and a clean sheet shows the resilience we have improved and shown in the last five to six weeks. 

“It was a different type of game we have played in the last four or five weeks when we have been on this really good run and it shows the different side and different character.  

“I thought we managed the game really well. We’re starting to do the right things at the right time.  

“I don’t think there was a shot on target against us so from that point of view I’m delighted and James Hilton has always got that quality.  

“James is capable of things that a lot of players aren’t at this level – I was right behind it and it’s a difficult finish right in the corner.  

“He is brave and the type of kid who will go and try things that other players wouldn’t and that’s how you get your rewards.”

Three games of the regular League Two campaign remain before Dumbarton head into the League One promotion play-offs next month.

Farrell is aware some of his squad have played a lot of minutes this season and hinted he may look to change things up for the final few games.

He explained: “We want to try and get players as fresh as we can for the play-offs.  

“We’re mindful that Tony Wallace and Finlay Gray have played a lot of football but at the end of the day we don’t want to come off this run either so we need to get the balance right.  

“I don’t want to be making too many changes and causing disruption but at the same time we want to get people like David Wilson fit for the play-offs because we will need the squad.”  

Dumbarton travel to Stanraer on Saturday. Kick-off at Stair Park is at 3.00pm.