Aberdeen beat Inverness 1-0 to move into top six

GLASGOW, Apr 1 (Reuters) A late goal from Steve Lovell gave Aberdeen a 1-0 win at Inverness Caledonian Thistle today and moved them up to sixth in the Scottish Premier League.

Aberdeen have 45 points from 31 games, one ahead of Motherwell, who beat basement club Livingston 2-1 even though Richie Foran missed a first-half penalty.

Leaders Celtic have 79 points, Hearts are second on 62 while third-placed Rangers have 56.

Foran's 13th minute spot kick was well saved by keeper Rod McKenzie after Livingston defender Greg Strong had brought down Scott McDonald.

Motherwell striker Jim Hamilton headed into the net from close range following a cross by Martyn Corrigan six minutes before the interval.

Livingston substitute Noel Whelan flicked in an equaliser before Brian McLean netted a late winner with a right-foot shot.

Dunfermline drew 1-1 with fellow strugglers Falkirk. Jack Ross scored the opener before Mark Burchill volleyed a spectacular second-half equaliser.

Champions Rangers have the chance to reduce the gap on Hearts when they face Dundee United at Tannadice tomorrow.

REUTERS SHB PC2235