Chanka Zimba's second-half strike propelled Inverness to the top of League One with a narrow 1-0 victory over Montrose at the Sarens PSG Stadium on Saturday. The win, coupled with Stenhousemuir's draw against Queen of the South, allowed Inverness to overtake Stenhousemuir, who had started the day as league leaders.
The decisive moment came in the 49th minute when Zimba found the back of the net, securing all three points for the home side. Despite creating chances, Montrose were unable to break down a resolute Inverness defense.
Stenhousemuir, who were hoping to maintain their position at the summit, were held to a 1-1 draw at Palmerston Park. Jack Stott's early goal had put Queen of the South ahead, but Ross Taylor's late equalizer salvaged a point for Stenhousemuir.
Elsewhere in League One, Alloa secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Kelty Hearts, with goals from Luke Rankin, Calum Adamson, and David Devine. East Fife and Hamilton played out a 1-1 draw, Oli Shaw cancelling out Andy Munro's 74th-minute header. Peterhead claimed a 2-1 win against bottom-of-the-table Cove Rangers, with Jason Brown and Cammy Smith on the scoresheet.
In League Two, Spartans extended their lead at the top with a 2-1 victory over East Kilbride, courtesy of goals from James Craigen and Cam Russell. Clyde eased to a 3-1 win against Dumbarton, while Elgin City defeated Annan Athletic 2-0. Stranraer secured a 3-1 home victory over Forfar, and Lewis McArthur's goal gave Bonnyrigg Rose a 1-0 win against Stranraer.
Inverness's victory was hard-fought, with Montrose proving to be a difficult opponent. In a previous encounter on August 23, 2025, Inverness had defeated Montrose 2-0, with goals from Alfie Bavidge and Calum MacLeod. In that match, Montrose threatened early on, but Bavidge opened the scoring for Inverness in the fourth minute. MacLeod doubled their lead in the 33rd minute. Zimba, who came on as a substitute in that game, missed a chance to extend Inverness's lead. Ultimately, Inverness had to settle for a 1-0 victory this time around.
