Dundee Utd0–1St Johnstone

United came into this match high in confidence after 5 straight wins and a most recent 5-0 mauling of Inverness Caley in the Highlands. St Johnstone themselves were fighting to gain a top six place while still flying high in the Scottish Cup.

St Johnstone dominated the early part of this match, threatening four times in the opening 15 minutes. Gary McDonald headed David Wotherspoon's near-post corner wide then Cierzniak saved May's shot. Keith Watson cleared a Michael O'Halloran's cutback before May volleyed over from close in. United improved as the game progressed and had two good chances to score themselves. Mackay-Steven rounded Alan Mannus but Dave Mackay blocked the shot. Soon after, Nadir Ciftci passed up an even better chance, firing in a poor effort when it looked easier to score.

It was a soft goal from Stevie May that broke the deadlock soon after half time. Cierzniak looked to have the striker's effort covered but took his eye off the ball and saw it slip out of his grasp and into the goal. United fought back and Mannus had to save a Ciftci's header and push away Ryan Dow's strike. United threw on El Alagui and Ryan Gauld for the last 20 minutes and both were involved in controversial moments that led to the dismissal of both managers. When El Alagui hit the deck in the box after a robust challenge from O'Halloran there were strong claims for a penalty. That was followed by Gauld's mesmerising run being brought to a halt with no free-kick awarded, the United bench reacted furiously, sparking a touchline row between the opposition managers. Soon after Mannus saved from El Alagui following a Robertson cross before Saints survived another penalty claim when Wotherspoon challenged Mackay-Steven in stoppage time. The defeat means United drop to fifth in the table and brings to an end a run of five consecutive victories.

Match Photos courtesy of Riki Grauer - More photos available at:
Dundee United Official Flickr Page