Darren Dods' header on the stroke of half-time handed promotion hopefuls Falkirk a battling 1-0 win at Hamilton.

The defender powered the ball from close-range into the bottom-left corner following Mark Millar's inswinging corner.

The Bairns looked to be cruising to all three points but had to dig in as Hamilton rallied during the final 15 minutes.

Sub Grant Anderson came agonisingly close to an equaliser in the 76th minute but his volley from 12 yards out hit the bar.

Defender Steven Hendrie went even closer a minute later but his powerful effort was tipped over the bar by Michael McGovern.

And James McAlister squandered another chance with five minutes remaining when he headed Greig Spence's cross straight at McGovern.