Dumbarton pulled themselves clear of the Division Two relegation zone with a fine victory over league leaders Brechin, who now find their lead at the top cut to two points.
Brechin were first to threaten after three minutes when Dumbarton keeper Stephen Grindlay saved a shot by Steven Hampshire.
After 10 minutes Brechin's Charlie King worked a one-two with Paul Ritchie but was tackled on the point of shooting by Craig McEwan.
Dumbarton opened the scoring after 20 minutes when Eddie Annand headed home a corner kick from James Allan. Dumbarton might have stretched their lead in the 25th minute when Paul Ronald had a shot cleared off the line by Stuart Callaghan.
They did, however, go two up after 36 minutes when James McKinstry exchanged passes with Allan and fired the ball home from inside the box.
Brechin began the second half well as they looked to get back into the game, and after 47 minutes Scott Walker headed over. Dumbarton went close ater 52 minutes when Annand had an effort deflected for a corner by Craig Nelson.
A minute late Hampshire had a low drive saved by Grindlay. Graham Gibson had the ball in the net for Brechin after 56 minutes but was ruled offside.
Dumbarton appealed for a penalty when James McKinstry went down in a challenge with Roddy Black, but the referee said no. Then a minute later Allan missed a good chance when he blazed over when well placed.
Dumbarton almost stretched their lead after 77 minutes when John Dillon forced a great save from Nelson.
Six minutes from time Dumbarton substitute John Gemmelll got clear on the left and shot inches wide of the Brechin post.