Marvin Andrews rolled back the years with a dominant defensive display which was the foundation for Forfar’s first-ever win at New Broomfield.
The 37-year-old centre-back was in tremendous form as Airdrieonians played right into his hands with long, aerial balls in his direction.
Andrews won every header and was tough in the tackle as goals from trialist Jamie McCluskey and substitute Ross Campbell saw the Loons bounce back from their 2-1 defeat to Stranraer.
And the former Trinidad and Tobago international admitted he is delighted to be out there doing his job and trying to keep clean sheets for his side.
He said: “Everybody knows me for my headed clearances. They know that is my trademark. When we played Rangers, Ally McCoist said in an interview that I’d be doing this until I’m 50!
“This is my game. I’m a defender and I focus on my strong points while leaving the rest up to the other guys.
“We needed to bounce back. Our problem is that we have been very inconsistent and, as a team, we need to develop some consistency.
“Strikers love to score goals but defenders want to keep clean sheets and that is what helps build our confidence. We’re delighted to get that here.
“I’m just so happy to still be playing after all I have been through and I can’t thank God enough for that.”
Forfar opened the scoring in the 13th minute when great skill by on-loan Dundee United forward Dale Hilson saw him square for McCluskey, who tapped the ball home.
The points were wrapped up in the second minute of injury time, with Campbell converting from the spot after Grant Evans fouled Chris Templeman in the area.
Loons gaffer Dick Campbell felt his side were worthy winners and was satisfied with his side’s response to last weekend’s home setback.
“We did really well,” he said. “We defended well and kept a clean sheet and I thought we created numerous chances. I think the scoreline is a fair reflection.”
Airdrie counterpart Jimmy Boyle was furious with his players, saying: “It looked at times as is they didn’t care.”