Livingston climbed back into the top six of the Premiership after first half goals from Joel Nouble and Nicky Devlin beat Ross County 2–1.
After a dull start, the Lions brought the game to life with two goals in as many minutes.
Nouble opened the scoring in the 37th minute before captain Devlin fired from 18 yards.
County substitute Simon Murray pulled one back but the visiting team, who slipped into the bottom two, ran out of time to find an equalizer.
Both teams were concerned after just three minutes when both Devlin and Staggies striker Eamonn Brophy required treatment after being struck by home goalkeeper Shamal George while chasing a ball over the top.
Both players were able to continue and it was the Lions who began to assert their dominance.
Livingston forward Bruce Anderson had a deflected shot saved by Ross Laidlaw before Morgan Boyes had a brilliantly blocked effort by Connor Randall.
The visitors struggled to gain a foothold in the game, but created their first significant chance in the 32nd minute.
Gwion Edwards’ corner was taken by Jordan White, but the outstretched Keith Watson could only find the side netting at the far post.
Just as County were starting to look more dangerous, Livingston took the lead on 37 minutes.
James Penrice’s shot was met by Nouble and the striker headed a return effort through goal into the net past Laidlaw.
Things got better for Livingston when they doubled their lead just two minutes later.
Penrice’s effort was parried by Laidlaw, but the ball made its way to Devlin and the Livingston captain fired a shot into the corner of the net from 18 yards.
The hosts were quick to come out of lockdowns early in the second period as they came close to adding a third.
Jason Holt assisted Devlin, but the right-back’s effort from a tight angle bounced off Laidlaw’s chest.
Borough Chief Malky Mackay made his way to his bench to try to spice up his side, with Murray and Ross Callachan walking in.
And the pair were involved when County pulled one back in the 69th minute.
Callachan found Brophy and his low cross bounced back before being blasted into the net from close range by Murray.
The assistant referee raised the offside flag, but VAR ruled it out after reviewing footage of the play.
The county increased the pressure, but Livingston stood his ground to collect all the loot.
Whats Next?
livingston return to Scottish Premiership action after international break to Saint Mirren April 1. Start 3pm.
ross county host Celtic the 2nd of April, live on Sky Sports. Start 12 noon.
