A MORTON Under-20s outfit that included 15-year-old Ben Docherty slipped to a narrow 1-0 defeat to Stranraer in a Development League West clash at Cappielow.

It took a spot-kick from striker Jai Holland to seal all three points for the visitors after 15-year-old defender Docherty had tripped the forward just inside the area.

The youngster produced an admirable performance, penalty aside, and will have been pleased with the time he spent on the pitch alongside his older brother Blair — who himself was unfortunately sent off in the closing stages for a strong challenge on an opponent.

Seventeen-year-old Alexander Easdale featured for his second start in a row as Ton coach Darren Barr experimented with his youngsters as Lewis Strapp temporarily returned from his development loan at Elgin to make an appearance.

Fellow loanees Jamie McGowan and Ben Eardley also started while Scott Miller and David Anderson began on the bench.

Ton began well and had half-chances through Ben Armour and Blair Docherty before Holland netted from the spot for Stranraer to throw a spanner in the works and force the hosts to push forward.

Midfielder Jack Purdue looked lively and screwed an effort over before he slipped in Armour to shoot over.

Cappielow keeper Jamie McGowan had to stay alert as he made a spectacular save from Cameron Elliot before keeping out a Chris McGowan rasper from 30 yards.

Sub Scott Miller then leathered the post for the home side before Docherty was eventually carded in front of the Ton bench — who were fuming with the referee’s decision to send off the winger.

The result sees Ton fall just behind Stranraer in the league table into fifth on 14 points. And although the Greenock kids have played one more game in the league than some opponents, they remain just three points behind table toppers Queen’s Park.