It took almost 20 minutes for either side to create a real chance of note, Banks O’Dee’s Connor Osprey blasting high and wide of the goal when unmarked in the box.

The let-off proved crucial, Terry MASSON beating the Bank O’ Dee offside trap to smash the ball past Daniel Hoban in the visitors’ goal just 30 seconds later.

Montrose doubled their advantage in the 29th minute when Owen Emslie’s pass deflected into the path of Blair LYONS, who coolly tucked a finish into the bottom corner.

Banks O’Dee reduced the deficit two minutes later, Lachie MACLEOD beating Cammy Gill at his near post with a powerful finish.

Craig Brown could have scored Montrose’s third goal a minute before half time, but his low shot was well blocked by Hoban.

Brown was the first to have an attempt on goal in the second half, but shot well over the bar from the edge of the box.

Jay Cochrane was denied a goal in the 53rd minute, his low volley turned around the post at full stretch by Hoban. Aidan Quinn nodded wide from the corner that followed.

Good play from Craig Brown on the left wing almost created an opening for Montrose in the 55th minute, but his low cross into the box was hooked over the bar by Andrew Steeves.

Brown was denied again in the 72nd minute when he controlled the rebound from a Harry Craig shot, dipped his shoulder to leave his marker sprawling, but his shot flew over the bar.

Fisola Onafeko tried his luck for Banks O’Dee in the 73rd minute, but his long range shot was too high.

Ali Shrive should have put Montrose two goals ahead in the 77th minute when the rebound from Craig Brown’s shot fell to him six yards out, but Hoban smothered the ball before he could pull the trigger.

Lachie MacLeod was denied a second goal in the 78th minute, shooting low straight at Montrose’s substitute goalkeeper Ross Matthews.

BROWN applied the finishing touch in the 87th minute, curling the ball into the net after Shrive had won the ball deep in the Banks O’Dee half.

Brown hooked a shot wide of the target in the dying seconds as Montrose chased a fourth.

Attendance: 251

Report by Mark Rae