Caledonian League front runners East Kilbride YM tightened their grip on top spot after recording their 10th win of the season.

YM maintained their 100 per cent record in the league, edging past Westerlands thanks to strikes from Cameron McCulloch, Ross McDonagh and Connor McCann.

The hosts took the lead early on when Ross McDonagh laid the ball back for Cameron McCulloch to cut inside the full back and fire low into the net for a superb opening goal.

YM’s lead was short lived as Westerlands equalised two minutes later when centre forward Halley got on the end of a corner kick to produce a blistering start to the match.

Moments later Ross McDonagh put Cameron McCulloch through once again and when he was impeded, the referee had no option but to award a penalty.

Ross McDonagh stepped up and put YM back in front with an excellent spot kick, giving the keeper no chance.

Westerlands searched for an equaliser and when McFarlane found himself through one-on-one with YM keeper Fraser Campbell he looked certain to score – only for Campbell to pull off an excellent save.

A few minutes later Fraser Campbell came to the rescue again with an instinctive save to keep out a thumping volley from Halley.

The second half saw YM dominate possession but Westerlands defended resolutely, while always looking dangerous on the break. Fortunately, YM central defenders Liam Sloan and Jordan Calder were in top form.

Ryan Kelly thought he had put YM further in front but he was unfortunate with a 20-yard free kick that hit the upright. Westerlands keeper Haldane then thwarted Craig Fry with a point blank save.

However, YM’s perseverance paid off in the closing minutes when Jordan Fletcher sent Connor McCann through one-on-one with the keeper and YM’s leading scorer sealed victory, lobbing the ball over the advancing keeper for his 22nd goal of the season.

The victory leaves YM nine points clear of nearest rivals Dunblane Soccer Academy at the top of the table, having played a game more, and 12 ahead of Westerlands.