A goal from former Montrose player David Greenhill gave East Stirling a crucial victory at Montrose, a result that leaves the Links Park side dangerously close to bottom spot.
Boss George Shields said: “It was such a scrappy game with few chances. We just never passed the ball.
“It was a nervous display. Once again we have done well one week only to let ourselves down the next.
“We need to get some points on the board.
“We have lost two players with broken bones since last week but I am not making excuses.
“The 11 we put on the field should have been capable of winning that game.”
Montrose had veteran defender Marvin Andrews making his home debut and the big man headed wide from a Ross McCord corner in four minutes.
Greenhill had a long-range shot saved by Stuart McKenzie, then on 26 minutes Graeme McGregor also tested the home keeper.
Greenhill had another shot saved, then a defensive mistake let David McKenna run clear but he put his shot wide of the far post.
East Stirling took the lead on 59 minutes. Adam Harwood gave the ball away to Ross Gilmour and he passed for Greenhill to arrow a shot into the bottom corner.
Montrose tried to hit back immediately and Paul Harkins was denied by keeper Richard Barnard.
The power of Andrews at set-pieces was the main threat for Montrose and, when he connected with a Harkins corner, the ball flew just over.
As time ran out, a Harwood shot was deflected over after Andrews headed the ball down.
East Stirling could have scored again. McKenna had a shot from an angle saved by McKenzie, then Greenhill set up the trialist winger and he shot wide with the last kick of the game.
* Montrose signing target Stuart Duff, the former Dundee United midfielder, has signed a 2-year deal with Cove Rangers.