Ian Murray praised Airdrie's character as they saw off Dumbarton with 10 men to deny Cove Rangers a title party and keep slim hopes of lifting the crown themselves alive.
An 88th minute strike from substitute Jordan Allan earned the Diamonds a 3-2 victory, having played with 10 men for 50 minutes at New Broomfield after Adam Frizzell's controversial red card.
Goals from Dylan Easton and Calum Gallagher had Airdrie in control but Sons pulled level after a George Stanger header and a Rhys McCabe header set up the grand finale.