GIVEN the financial chaos that continues to engulf Livingston – despite the claims of chairman Angelo Massone – their efforts under Paul Hegarty have been admirable.
Amid a worrying backdrop of unpaid wages, creditors in court and staff walk-outs
, Hegarty had masterminded a five-game unbeaten run to spark lingering title hopes.
Yesterday, however, against another form side in Morton, they came unstuck, as Davie Irons' well-drilled visitors leapfrogged the Lions into third spot.
Massone issued a rambled, angry statement to concerns pre-match, claiming an "organised group of four or five people who call themselves supporters are trying to damage the club. . . they want to take control of this club, kill it and restart it again in the lower divisions. . . they are misleading supporters through their propaganda."
The Italian's harsh words appeared to be directed at the Livi For Life Supporters Trust, who have a community-based vision if administration occurs.
On the pitch, Livingston were less emphatic than their outspoken leader. Morton were the dominant early force and made a 19th-minute breakthrough in simple fashion. Steven Masterton's cross from the right was neatly glanced past a prone Roddy McKenzie by the head of Brian Wake.
A youthful Livingston side were without captain Chris Innes and Morton, unbeaten in eight games now, sealed it when Wake swept home.
