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Inverness CT kept their Scottish Championship promotion hopes alive with victory over Arbroath at the Tulloch Caledonian Stadium.

Nikolay Todorov's diving header was enough to ensure all three points stayed in the Highlands.

On-loan Hibs midfielder Scott Allan made his debut from the bench for the home side.

The win leaves Caley three points off second-placed Raith Rovers, albeit having played a game more.

Inverness had the ball in the back of the net when David Carson got on the end of a Robbie Deas header, but that was ruled offside.

An excellent chance fell to the visitors just ahead of the half-time whistle when Lewis Moore's corner was headed on by Ricky Little, Sean Welsh clearing off the line.

Miles Storey and Allan both forced saves from Arbroath goalkeeper Derek Gaston but Todorov's goal with just over 20 minutes to go was enough for Neil McCann's side.

Inverness CT interim manger Neil McCann: "I'm absolutely delighted with the team. You could see we were pretty jaded. We were leggy and looked a wee bit tired and maybe sometimes making poor decisions.

"They've been asked to play nine games in a month - that's an incredible workload. But that's four wins on the bounce and four clean sheets. Arbroath gave us a real tough match - we knew they would. We are pleased we came out on top."

Arbroath manager Dick Campbell: "The first attack on goal they've scored. It could have been avoided. I can't praise my players enough, they were magnificent. Christmas I think has come early for Inverness. They've won three games on the trot and that will probably keep them safe.

"If you don't create goals you are always vulnerable. Inverness deserved to win - they scored and we didn't. I just feel sorry for my own boys, they should have got something out of the game."