Bobby Linn and Ryan McCord missed penalties but Arbroath still defeated leaders Forfar Athletic at a wet and windy Gayfield.
The Loons, who won their opening seven games but have now lost their last two, remain clear of the pack at the top of the table with the first quarter of the season now complete, but Linn is confident the gap can be closed over the coming months.
He said: “It has been a bit stop-start for us so far, but today’s win gives us massive confidence.
“We knocked the ball about really well and it all came together for us. I thought we were in complete control.”
Arbroath were awarded a penalty midway through the first half when Omar Kader was tripped, but Linn hit the bar.
The Lichties were awarded a second penalty six minutes before the interval, Steven Doris being felled by Jamie Bain who received a straight red card for denying a goal-scoring opportunity.
Ryan McCord’s spot-kick was brilliantly saved by Grant Adam.
With the advantage of the extra man, the Lichties made a strong start to the second half and it was little surprise when they opened the scoring with a Steven Doris header which was deflected into the net by Forfar’s David Cox.
But Forfar responded and sub Marc Scott hit the post.
However, 13 minutes from time Martin Scott headed a Josh Skelly free-kick into the corner of the net.
Forfar boss Gary Bollan said: “I think the red card was harsh but we’ll have a look at the video, and if we feel there’s grounds for an appeal that’s what we’ll do.
“We are miles better than we showed today but the players need to realise they have to work hard and win the battles you get in these derby games.”