Neil Lennon secured his first victory as Dunfermline Athletic manager on Wednesday night as his side recorded an impressive 1-0 win over promotion-chasing Livingston at East End Park.
A goal from ex-Celtic starlet Ewan Otoo just before half-time proved decisive, securing a narrow victory that lifted the Pars out of the Scottish Championship relegation play-off zone.
The hard-fought triumph represented a significant turnaround for Dunfermline, who just days earlier had suffered a demoralising 3-0 defeat to Ayr United in Lennon's dugout debut.
Livingston entered the fixture riding a wave of momentum, having been crowned SPFL Trust Trophy champions last weekend.
That cup success had come on the heels of a statement victory over league leaders Falkirk, establishing David Martindale's men as genuine promotion contenders. However, their high-flying form was abruptly halted by a determined Dunfermline side.
While Livingston arrived with silverware freshly added to their trophy cabinet, the Pars were still reeling from Saturday's comprehensive defeat at Somerset Park.
That disappointing result had been compounded by the dismissal of marquee signing Victor Wanyama, who saw red shortly after being introduced for his debut - an unfortunate start to the former Celtic and Tottenham Hotspur midfielder's Dunfermline career.
Read more:
-
Ibrox heroes facing relegation reality: Queen's Park's season continues to unravel
-
Millwall representative watches Kevin Nisbet shine for Aberdeen amid summer plans
Despite Wanyama's absence through suspension, Lennon's tactical adjustments proved effective against a Livingston team that appeared to be suffering from post-trophy celebrations.
The Pars executed a disciplined defensive performance, limiting Livi's attacking opportunities while protecting Otoo's crucial first-half strike.
The result marks a significant milestone in Lennon's return to Scottish football management.
The Northern Irishman, who enjoyed tremendous success during two spells at Celtic and also helped Hibernian gain promotion from the second-tier at first time of asking, has been tasked with stabilising Dunfermline and guiding them away from relegation concerns.
And with five games remaining, Lennon will hope they can start looking up rather than behind them over the coming weeks.
