MORTON Under-20s were crowned league champions after winning their title decider against Ayr United 1-0 at Cappielow last night.

Jack Purdue’s penalty midway through the second half was enough to move the Ton teenagers from fourth to first in the Development League West table.

But they had to weather heavy pressure in the closing stages, with goalkeeper Daniel Farrell pulling off a number of terrific saves.

On the back of a 6-1 win over Albion Rovers on Monday night and after Stranraer were docked three points at an SPFL hearing earlier in the week, the Greenock side knew their fate was in their own hands.

But Ayr could have also won the league if they came away from Cappielow with a victory, and a draw would have gifted the title to Airdrie.

The game started off at a frantic pace, going from end-to-end in the opening five minutes. Ton striker Ben Armour twice went close, with United’s James Hilton forcing Farrell into a save.

As the game began to settle down, the hosts began to take control, and next carved out a chance via Kieran Brophy, with Armour and Alexander Easdale also going close.

But Ton’s best chance in the opening half would come just before the break. A Shaun Rodgers attempt smashed off the bar, with Easdale’s follow-up from close range hooked just over.

However, the second half was very different. The visitors appeared rejuvenated and took a stranglehold on the game.

Finn Ecrepont, Luke McCowan and Robert Griffiths all went close for Ayr United, but the game’s decisive moment came on 63 minutes.

A long ball from the Morton defence found its way to Armour and the striker powered forward before being brought down in the box.

Purdue stepped up and coolly slotted the ball into the bottom left corner, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.

Ayr continued to pile on the pressure as they searched for an equaliser, with Farrell being called into action to deny Chris Campbell, Mark McKenzie and Hilton.

But he kept his best save until last, the 18-year-old pushing McCowan’s venomous drive beyond the right-hand post three minutes from the end.

However, Morton were able to hold on to secure the win and were presented with the trophy after the game.