Hamilton completely overran second place Brechin with three goals in the closing 16 minutes to run out 4-1 winners.

The match started amidst a heavy downpour which made under foot conditions tricky but the home side were first to find their feet and deservedly took the lead after 37 minutes.

Michael Moore found himself on the left hand side with only Kevin Bain in front of him and his finish gave goalkeeper Derek Soutar no chance to make it 1-0.

A minute before half time Moore might have made it two from an identical position but this time the City keeper produced a wonderful diving save.

Brechin surged back up the other end where Bain's cross was headed home by Roddy Grant to give City some hope.

But Accies always looked likely to regain full control which they did comprehensively in the second half.

Sustained pressure paid off after 74 minutes when Chris Hillcoat's free kick was met by Moore whose header looked to be crossing the line but Stuart Callaghan made sure from two yards to make it 2-1.

Four minutes later a free kick from Allan Russell was met by Mark Nelson whose firm header gave Soutar no chance for the third goal.

Then two minutes from time Russell capped a fine display with a great solo goal to tie up all three points.