It was a cruel outcome for Stranraer who finished the Third Division season 13 points clear of Arbroath, however until Saturday they had not beaten the Red Lichties in five previous meetings during the campaign.

Arbroath established themselves as favourites for the tie with their 2-0 home win in midweek, thanks to goals from Robbie Raeside and Barry Sellars, and they looked to add to their lead.

The game took a dramatic turn when Arbroath's Craig Tully was red-carded after 58 minutes and Stranraer went in front five minutes later through Gregory Tade.

Another goal would have forced extra-time, but the 10-man visitors held on against the league runners-up to earn promotion alongside Third Division champions Ross County.