EAST Kilbride continue to set the pace after netting three times in four minutes to beat Gala Fairydean Rovers.

Adam Strachan converted two penalties awarded just a couple of minutes apart approaching the hour.

And Ross McNeil added a third just a minute later.

East Kilbride boss Billy Stark said: “We had to be patient today but the pressure led to the penalties and once we were in front we looked like we would go on and win.

“Gala have some good players but I thought we handled any threat well.”

The 3-0 victory maintains Kilby’s four-point advantage over second-placed BSC Glasgow, who beat Edusport Academy 1-0 at Galabank.

Daniel Stoney was the goal hero for Stephen Swift’s team.

Josh Morris scored his first goal since arriving at Ferguson Park from Cowdenbeath to help Whitehill Welfare to a 4-0 win over Cumbernauld Colts.

Jack Wright, Gary Nicholson and Robbie Carter were also on target to help Welfare move up to eighth.

Towering teenager Cameron Dawson netted twice as Vale of Leithen continued to climb away from danger with a 3-2 win over Stirling University.

The 18-year-old, who arrived at Victoria Park from Spartans last month, said: “I was getting a little frustrated after missing a couple of earlier chances so when the opportunity to shoot again came along I went for it.

“It’s great to get two goals today but getting the three points means more.

“Since coming here everyone has been really welcoming and I’m enjoying my football.”

Kerr Allan scored Vale's other goal, with Chris Geddes and Aiden Peden on target for the Students.

East Stirlingshire kept up the pressure on the top three with a 4-1 victory over struggling Dalbeattie Star at Ochilview to cement their fourth place.

Andy Rodgers scored a brace with Paul Sludden also netting ahead of a Hugh Cameron own-goal.

Tommy Muir was on target in the closing stages for Star’s consolation.

Andrew Mair’s second half goal was enough for Civil Service Strollers to beat Gretna 1-0.