Forfar Athletic put in some overtime so they can enjoy some time off over Christmas.
Gavin Swankie's goal deep into injury-time sealed a 4-3 win over Cowdenbeath and extended Forfar's lead at the top to seven points.
It gives them some breathing space before two of their most important games of the season, at home to fourth-placed Clyde on Boxing Day and a trip to third-placed Elgin City on January 2.
"I have to give my players credit for showing the character to win the game. They kept pressing right to the end," said manager Gary Bollan, who saw his team twice go behind.
If Swankie's goal proved precious for Forfar it was deeply wounding to Cowdenbeath as it sent them to the bottom of the league after a game in which they had contributed so much.
Another late goal saw Arbroath leap into second place with a 3-2 win over Elgin City.
A disputed penalty from Steven Doris settled it after Arbroath fought back from two goals down to take all three points.
It was an eventful 90 minutes with Jassem Sukar sent off for Arbroath and Thomas Reilly red-carded for Elgin, both after picking up two bookings.
Stirling Albion moved off the bottom with a come-from-behind 3-1 win over Annan Athletic, who had led through a Max Wright penalty.
Manager Dave MacKay claimed it was a "horrific start" but Darren Smith, Ross McMillan and Dylan Bikey scored the goals that healed the scars.
Clyde's challenge suffered a setback as they were held 0-0 at home by Edinburgh City, a late "goal" from Peter MacDonald chalked off.
"The way they play - 5-4-1 - is difficult to break down," pointed out manager Barry Ferguson.
"I thought we edged it and the goal was clearly onside as I've watched it again.
"It's disappointing. I thought we had to win today to seriously challenge and we need to have a look at ourselves as to where we want to be.
"Every game to me is massive as I want to win every game and the players need to get that mentality."
Substitute Jonny Court headed the winner as Montrose won 2-1 at Berwick Rangers.
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