Livingston's Steven Craig was stretchered off after only 1 minute when he was struck in the face by the ball as Marc Smyth tried to clear it up field. Allan Walker then replaced the experienced striker.
As if that was not bad enough for Livingston they were reduced to 10 men after half an hour when James McPake was given a straight red after hauling Brian McPhee to the ground on the edge of the box.
Airdrie's recent disciplinary record lists Paul Lovering and new signing Xavier Barrau as having been red-carded and both were missing today as a consequence. Having to re-jig his side manager Sandy Stewart has limited options but today brought in Neil McGowan and Gary Twigg to cover.
Airdrie enjoyed much of the first half pressure even before Livingston were reduced to 10 men. However, as has been their problem for much of the season they failed to convert good chances into goals.
In the second half it was Airdrie who pushed for the opener and midway through Stephen McDougall almost succeeded. He broke into the box before hitting a great shot low and hard. Keeper Stewart though was his match and saved well.
However, in the 90th minute Livingston struck. A hopeful free kick was floated into the box where Steven Tweed rose above the keeper and headed the ball home.