Current form ruled over historical precedent as a single goal from striker Ian Harty booked Stranraer's place in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup.

The home side had already beaten Forfar Athletic twice this season, including last week's 3-2 Second Division win.

But the Angus outfit knew that, back in 1972, when the two side's last drew 2-2 in the Scottish Cup, they had travelled to Stair Park and returned north with a 2-1 victory under their belts.

This time, Stranraer made home advantage tell thanks to a large slice of luck in the replay to book a trip to Greenock to face Third Division Morton in the next round.

The visitors, without cup-tied defender Stewart Greacen, were on top when the game drew to a close and twice hit the woodwork in the second half.

Martin Bavidge first struck the post with a volley that was then swept to safety by Stranraer skipper Steve Aitken.

Marc Anthony picked out the same spot on the woodwork from fully 25 yards.

But Stranraer, minus forward Andy Kane and midfielder Allan Jenkins, who had been ruled out through injury and suspension respectively, shocked the visitors with a well-taken winner.

Fraser Wright sprinted past Marc Cocozza and his near post cross was tucked away by Harty.

Colin Hodge missed an open goal deep into injury time as Forfar pushed in vain for an equaliser.

Stranraer: Hillcoat, Gaughan (Sharp 88), Hodge, Crawford, Wingate, Wright, Finlayson, Aitken, Harty, Moore, Kerr (Lurinsky 57).
Subs Not Used: Curran, Scott, McCulloch.

Goals: Harty 74.

Forfar: Brown, Rattray (Cocozza 54), McCulloch, Milne, Good (McCloy 28), Byers, Williams (Hodge 80), Anthony, Shaw, Bavidge, Henderson.
Subs Not Used: Lunan, Ferrie.

Attendance: 425

Referee: I Brines (Scotland).